Evaluating anal canal pressure, rectal sensations, and push maneuvers in patients with defecatory disorders

Abstract

Objectives: to evaluate anal canal pressure, rectal sensation levels, and push maneuvers on high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) in patients with defecation disorders. Methods: a retrospective study was conducted in 73 patients who were ≥18 years old, had bowel habit disorders, stool appearance changes, and performed HRAM from July 2018 to July 2019. Results: the study included 28 males and 45 females. The mean age was 46.2±15.5 (years old). The proportions of patients having symptoms related to bowel habit disorders, stool appearance changes and fecal incontinence were 74, 26 and 9.6%, respectively. Men had higher anal canal resting and squeeze pressure. There was no significant difference in rectal sensation levels between the two genders. 77.9% of patients had dyssynergic defecation, mostly type I (45.6%). The HRAM values were not different between the two groups (normal pushing maneuver and dyssynergic defecation). Conclusions: age relates to anal sphincter pressure. There is a high proportion of patients having dyssynergic defecation, in which type I is predominant.