Anorectal Manometry

Anorectal manometry is a specialized test used to evaluate bowel function and identify causes of chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and other pelvic floor disorders. At North Shore Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Centers, our team performs anorectal manometry in Westlake and Brooklyn, OH, to measure how well the anal sphincter muscles work. This test can also indicate how the rectum senses stool and how the nerves controlling bowel movements respond. This minimally invasive outpatient test provides essential information when diagnosing bowel dysfunction and helps guide effective, individualized treatment plans.

A gastroenterologist in a white lab coat and stethoscope performs a physical abdominal examination, using palpation to check a patient's stomach and lower abdomen for signs of tenderness or swelling.

Why Anorectal Manometry Is Performed?

Your gastroenterologist may recommend anorectal manometry (measuring pressure) if you experience symptoms such as chronic constipation, incomplete evacuation, stool leakage, or difficulty controlling bowel movements. The test is also used to evaluate pelvic floor dysfunction, assess nerve or muscle coordination, and determine whether the anal sphincters respond properly during bowel movements. Manometry can help identify whether symptoms are caused by weakened muscles, impaired sensation, abnormal reflexes, or improper coordination of the pelvic floor. Some of the symptoms may include fecal incontinence, constipation, and lower abdominal bloating.

About the Procedure

Anorectal manometry is performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes about 30 minutes. During the test, a small, flexible tube with a balloon at the end is gently inserted a short distance into the rectum while you lie comfortably on your side. The catheter is connected to a machine that measures pressure in the anal canal and rectum. The balloon is gradually inflated to evaluate your rectal sensation, muscle response, and reflex pathways.

Throughout the exam, you will be asked to squeeze, relax, and push at specific intervals. These actions help the physician determine whether the anal sphincters and pelvic floor muscles function normally. The test is not painful, though you may feel mild pressure or fullness during balloon inflation. Because sedation is not required, most patients tolerate the procedure well and are able to resume daily activities immediately afterward.

Additional Tests

Based on your symptoms, your doctor may perform additional evaluations during the same visit:

This test measures the electrical activity of the muscles of the anal sphincter muscles and helps identify whether nerve signals are coordinating properly during bowel movements. EMG is especially useful for diagnosing nerve injury, or pelvic floor dysfunction/muscular dysfunction.

This simple test measures the amount of time it takes to expel a balloon filled with a small amount of water from the rectum. Difficulty expelling the balloon may indicate pelvic floor dyssynergia or functional outlet obstruction, contributing to chronic constipation.

These tests, combined with manometry results, give your physician a comprehensive understanding of your bowel function and help determine the most effective course of treatment.

Anorectal Manometry in Westlake & Brooklyn, OH

If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic constipation, difficulty with bowel movements, or stool leakage, contact North Shore Gastroenterology at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment online to meet with one of our specialists and receive a detailed evaluation at our Westlake or Brooklyn locations.