Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. All authors participated in planning, researching, interpreting data, drafting, and editing the manuscript. Reprints: Adil E. Anorectal manometry ARM comprehensively assesses anorectal sensorimotor functions.
This review examines the indications, techniques, interpretation, strengths, and weaknesses of high-resolution ARM HR-ARM , 3-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry 3D-HR-ARM , and portable ARM, and other assessments ie, rectal sensation and rectal balloon expulsion test that are performed alongside manometry.
It is based on a literature search of articles related to ARM in adults. HR-ARM and 3D-HR-ARM are useful for diagnosing defecatory disorders DD , to identify anorectal sensorimotor dysfunction and guide management in patients with fecal incontinence FI , constipation, megacolon, and megarectum; and to screen for anorectal structural eg, rectal intussusception abnormalities. The rectal balloon expulsion test is a useful, low-cost, radiation-free, outpatient assessment tool for impaired evacuation that is performed and interpreted in conjunction with ARM.
The anorectal function tests should be interpreted with reference to age- and sex-matched normal values, clinical features, and results of other tests.
A larger database of technique-specific normal values and newer paradigms of analyzing anorectal pressure profiles will increase the precision and diagnostic utility of HR-ARM for identifying abnormal mechanisms of defecation and continence. Keywords: anal sphincter, biofeedback therapy, constipation, high-resolution anorectal manometry. Anorectal manometry ARM is a sophisticated technique that quantifies several aspects of the complex and multifactorial mechanisms that regulate defecation and continence.
