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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2005; 18(2): 109-115
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-870892
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Functional Anorectal Disorders

Melissa L. Times1 , Craig A. Reickert1
  • 1Division of Colon & Rectal Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 May 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Functional anorectal disorders include solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, rectocele, nonrelaxing puborectalis syndrome, and descending perineal syndrome. Patients usually present with “constipation,” but the clinical picture of these disorders includes rectal pain and bleeding, digitalization, incomplete evacuation, and a feeling of obstruction. Diagnosis is difficult because many findings can be seen in normal patients as well. The diagnosis is made by using a combination of clinical picture, defecography, pathology, and occasionally anometry and pudendal terminal motor nerve latency. These disorders are generally treated medically with dietary changes and biofeedback. Surgical intervention is reserved for patients with intractable symptoms and has not been universally successful.

KEYWORDS

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome - rectocele - nonrelaxing puborectalis syndrome - functional anorectal disorders

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Craig A ReickertM.D. 

Division of Colon & Rectal Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, K-7, 2799 W

Grand Blvd., Detroit, MI 48202

Email: Creicke1@hfhs.org