[Anorectal functional tests--essence and value]

Abstract

Anorectal disturbances are one of the most frequent functional bowel disorders. A lot of motor- and sensor anorectal tests are available. At the same time in Bulgaria anorectal disorders are unknown for the most of the gastroenterologists and surgeons, and that's why they are misdiagnosed and not treated correct. The aim of our paper is to summarize the experience with these techniques in patients with anorectal disorders. We are giving the definition of fecal incontinence, constipation, levator ani syndrome and proctalgia fugas. We revue some aspects of anatomy and physiology of the anorectum. We introduce all anorectal functional tests, the place of the tests in diagnostic algorithm, and the real value of each single test to conform diagnosis of common syndromes.