A short flexible tube with a balloon on the end is introduced into the anal opening, past a ring of muscles known as the anal sphincter, and into the rectum. Gradually inflating the little balloon at the catheter's tip. The muscles and nerves in the rectum and anus start to contract as a result. The tube's end is still outside the anus. It is coupled to a device that monitors and logs rectus and anal sphincter contractions and relaxations.

How do I prepare for the test?

Your body might need to be ready for anorectal manometry. This preparation is required to prevent stool from entering the rectum during the test. Your healthcare professional will want the following from you before the test:

• Avoid eating or drinking anything the night before the test after midnight.
• Prior to the exam, your bowels should be empty. Two to three hours prior to your consultation, you should perform a Fleet enema on yourself. Fleet enemas are available at your neighbourhood pharmacy or grocery store.

Most of the time, this test won't conflict with any prescription drugs you could be on. Before taking any recommended drugs the morning before the exam, check with your doctor.

Check on the below video to see how to give an Enema for procedural preparation:

What happens during anorectal manometry?

During the test itself, you can expect that:

• The examination won't involve any sedation.
• You will be instructed to lie on your side.
• Your anal sphincter will be gently opened, allowing a small, flexible tube (approximately 14 inch in diameter) to be introduced into your rectum.
• While the tube is being inserted, you might have some discomfort, but you shouldn't experience any pain.
• The exposed end of the tube will be connected to a device that will record the pressure changes (muscle contractions and relaxation) in your rectum and anal sphincter once it has been implanted.
• The tube will be slowly removed after the measurements have been made. The recordings that were made during the test will be interpreted by the gastroenterologist.

The exam will take between 10 and 20 minutes to complete.

What will happen after the test?

After the test, you can expect that:

• Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of the manometry test with you.
• You will go home and may resume your normal diet and activities.

If you think you may be experiencing any unusual symptoms or side effects, call your doctor.

Reference:
“Anorectal Manometry.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/12760-anorectal-manometry.