Ano-rectal Motility in Sick Children

Abstract

Motility of anus and rectum has been studied in 36 normal, and 67 pathological subjects. Normal mechanical characteristics in resting state and after stimulations are shown to be necessary for normal continence. Normal values are determined in normal subjects. In spina bifida, higher rectal activity is described, and normal anal resting and relaxing pressures are shown in continent subjects. In Hirschsprung's disease, defect of ano-rectal inhibitory reflex is confirmed, and normal anal pressures are found. In operated anorectal malformations, incontinence always corresponds with defect of recto-anal inhibitory reflex, lower length of anal resistance, or no functional striated sphincteric muscles.

Key-words:

• Anus
• gastrointestinal motility
• imperforate anus
• megacolon
• rectum
• spina bifida