| Theme |
Diagnosis and Treatment of Anorectal Disease |
| Title |
Clinical Significance of Physiological Tests of Anorectal Function |
| Author |
Kazutaka Yamada |
Department of Surgery, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| Author |
Shunji Ogata |
Department of Surgery, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| Author |
Ryoichi Nozaki |
Department of Internal Medicine, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| Author |
Midori Nakashima |
Department of Clinical Laboratory, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| Author |
Kayo Yamashita |
Department of Clinical Laboratory, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| Author |
Masahiro Takano |
Department of Surgery, Coloproctology Center, Takano Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
Physiological tests of anorectal function are aimed at producing an objective and quantitative evaluation of fecal continence and excrement and are useful for the diagnosis of fecal incontinence, idiopathic constipation, and defecatory dysfunctions after rectal surgery for cancer. In the rating system based on clinical symptoms, a quantitative evaluation is performed by grading or scoring fecal incontinence and constipation. Anorectal manometric studies and anal mucosal electrosensitivity testing quantitatively evaluate retraction of the anal sphincter, rectal stool retention ability, and sensitivity of the anal canal. Defecography objectively evaluates anorectal function by monitoring morphological changes at the time of bowel movement. The colonic transit test also objectively evaluates colonic motor function. |