Transrectal Ultrasound, Manometry, and Pudendal Nerve Terminal Latency Studies in the Evaluation of Sphincter Injuries

Brooke Gurland; Tracy Hull

doi:10.1055/s-2008-1080995

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, Table of Contents

Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2008; 21(3): 157-166
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1080995

Transrectal Ultrasound, Manometry, and Pudendal Nerve Terminal Latency Studies in the Evaluation of Sphincter Injuries

Brooke Gurland¹ , Tracy Hull¹

¹Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Fecal incontinence may be due to postpartum anal sphincter injuries or neurological damage even in the absence of obvious perineal trauma. Anal physiologic testing with transrectal ultrasound, manometry, and pudendal nerve terminal latency studies help to identify those patients with anal sphincter injuries who might benefit from anal sphincter repair. In this article, the authors discuss the specific tests that are available and how to interpret them.

KEYWORDS

Anal sphincter injuries - fecal incontinence - anal physiology testing

Full Text

References

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Brooke GurlandM.D.

Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Desk A-30, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195

Email: gurlanb@ccf.org