The University Hospital Anorectal Physiology Laboratory provides comprehensive anorectal physiology testing. Anorectal physiology is the study of the function of the lower bowel, the anus and the anal sphincter mechanism. The imaging equipment in the Anorectal Physiology Lab are utilized to look at the anal canal anatomy for anal sphincter tears, chronic anal infections, rectal/anal tumors, staging of rectal/anal cancers, follow-up for cancer recurrence, evaluation of loss of bowel control, and other disorders.

We are one of a few sites in Southern California to offer the advanced imaging techniques of the Falcon 2101, 3-D Ultrasound. This equipment provides clear data acquisition with the advantage of easy manipulation of data cubes for viewing 3-D images from different angles. An added benefit of this equipment is further precision in directing ultrasound guided biopsy for suspicious rectal and perirectal lesions.

Falcon 2101, 3-D Ultrasound Image

All anorectal manometry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing is performed on the newest Medtronic Encompass diagnostic system.

Diagnostics

Anal Manometry – Anal manometry measures the resting and squeeze pressures in the anal canal for cases of loss of bowel control. Anorectal reflexes and sensation are tested during the same examination.

Anorectal Ultrasound – Ultrasound is a very useful tool for imaging the anatomy of the internal and external anal sphincters. It is not an x-ray, therefore there is no radiation exposure. A probe the size of an index finger is inserted into the anal canal and the rectum. Using ‘sound waves’ produced by the probe, 3-D images are captured on the screen, and ultrasound guided biopsy of suspicious lesions can be performed during this testing. The patient may feel vibration from the probe during the examination, but it should not cause any discomfort.

Anoscopy - An “anoscope” is a small lighted instrument utilized to look at the anal canal and lower rectum.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - A thin lighted flexible tube called a sigmoidscope is utilized to look inside the rectum and lower colon for polyps, tumors or other abnormalities. Only the lower 1/4 to 1/3 of the colon is visualized.

Proctoscopy – A thin lighted rigid tube called a proctoscope is utilized to view the rectum.

Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency Testing – The test will allow us to determine if the nerves controlling the anal sphincter muscles have been damaged.

Procedures
The following procedures are also conducted in the Lab:

• Botox injections for anal fissures
• Fibrin glue injections for anal fistulae
• Hemorrhoid banding/ligation
• Incision/drainage of abscesses
• Excision of skin tags
• Electrogalvanic stimulation.