Procedures

Overview

Anorectal manometry evaluates patients with constipation and/or fecal incontinence. Anorectal manometry measures pressures of the anal sphincter muscles and the sensation in the rectum. The anal sphincter is a ring of muscles at the opening to the outside of your body. The rectum is the last part of the large intestine.

The anal and rectal area contains specialized muscles that help regulate the proper passage of bowel movements. Typically, when stool enters the rectum, the anal sphincter muscle tightens to prevent passage of stool at an inconvenient time. If this muscle is weak or does not contract promptly, incontinence (leakage of stool) may occur.