Anal Manometry and Ultrasound

What is Anal Manometry?
Anal manometry is a test which measures pressures of the anal sphincter muscles, sensation in the rectum, and the neural reflexes needed for normal bowel movements. This test, lasting approximately 30 minutes, involves insertion of a small flexible tube with a tiny balloon attached at the tip, into the rectum.  The tube is about the size of a thermometer. You will be asked to squeeze as if you are having a bowel movement.  Your provider will monitor the balloons passage as a way to measure pressures of the anal sphincter muscles.

What is an Anal Ultrasound?
An ultrasound uses sound waves to allow your provider to see tissue defects. With an anal ultrasound, a small lubricated probe is placed into the anus. The procedure, which takes between 10 and 20 minutes, allows your provider to visualize defects in the anal sphincter muscles.

Pretest Instructions
Approximately 3 hours prior to your scheduled appointment for an ultrasound or anal manometry, you will give yourself one Fleet enema.

If you are experiencing constipation or have not had a bowel movement in the past 3 days, you should administer one enema the night before the test and another again 3 hours prior to the test.

If you are traveling from more than 2 hours away, you may administer the enema 4 hours prior to your test.

You may take routine medications with small sips of water but you should avoid eating or drinking 2 hours prior to your test.

Post-test Instructions
There are no special post test instructions. You may drive yourself and may go about your usual activities as soon as the test is completed.