Anal Manometry and Sensory Testing
The evaluation of the strength of the internal and external sphincters, coordination of the muscles of the pelvic floor, and assesses sensations in the rectum. The test is used to assess constipation, fecal incontinence, to rule out Hirschsprung’s and many other pelvic floor conditions. The test is performed by placing a small tube the size of a drinking straw into the rectum. Pressure monitors inside the tube transmit the muscle impulses to a graph similar to an electrocardiogram. It is a painless procedure which takes 10 minutes to perform.
Cinedefecography with Fluoroscopy
A test of the motion of the pelvic floor, the muscles which control a bowel movement, and the motion of the anus and rectum during a bowel movement. A small amount of thickening barium is placed in the rectum while a video recording is made using fluoroscopy as you expel the barium. Contrast may also be placed in the vagina of female patients to better define movement of the rectum toward the vagina.
This test visualizes rectocele, enterocele, and rectal prolapse.
Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to obtain real-time moving images of the interior of an object. In its primary application of medical imaging, a fluoroscope allows a physician to see the internal structure and function of a patient, so that motion can be watched.
EMG Recruitment
Assess patient’s ability to voluntarily contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles. Used to assess relaxation of the pelvic floor in constipation.