University Health Alliance (UHA) continues to pride itself in providing medical services typically reserved for metropolitan cities or larger locales, breaking barriers and increasing access to the latest technology. One of the more recent additions in that category is anorectal manometry.

What is Anorectal Manometry?

“Anorectal manometry measures the pressures of the anal sphincter muscles, the sensation in the rectum, and the neural reflexes that are needed for normal bowel movements,” says Dr. Fia Yi, a board-certified colorectal surgeon with University Health Alliance, who has vast experience with the procedure. 

Anorectal manometry addresses the potential cause of issues such as fecal incontinence, constipation, and a variety of other defecatory disorders of varying degrees. The state-of-the-art technology provides a more granular perspective and near real-time feedback. This produces test results that give providers highly specific, customized information and allows for swifter patient referrals to the appropriate therapies or recommendations. 

What Can Patients Expect

Patients can rest easy as anorectal manometry is a non-invasive, low-risk, and easily tolerated outpatient procedure. Painless, without the need of IVs or anesthesia, the procedure takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to perform. The patient lies comfortably on their left side as a probe assesses muscular pressures and responses. There is no discomfort or post-procedure downtime.

“Patients shouldn’t be embarrassed or anxious,” explains Dr. Yi. “It’s a routine test that provides critical information for treating their condition effectively. Once the test is over, the patient can get dressed and go about their day. There are no restrictions on driving or eating afterward.” 

Results are typically reviewed by a specialist within a week. The referring physician will then share follow-up recommendations, which are tailored to the findings and needs of each patient.

The Advantage of Anorectal Manometry at UHA

A notable advantage of experiencing this procedure with University Health Alliance is the fact it’s performed by a colorectal surgeon, such as Dr. Yi. As a result, patients receive streamlined, all-in-one care. Unlike a gastroenterologist, a colorectal surgeon can not only perform the test and provide a diagnostic assessment, but can immediately recommend any additional needs such as more invasive therapeutics or surgical solutions. If a surgical need is identified, this eliminates the need for a separate surgeon referral. 

Better Access to Elevated Care

To UHA’s knowledge, it’s the only practice in Clarke County and the surrounding three counties offering anorectal manometry. This reflects UHA’s commitment to patient-centered care by bringing specialized tests to the area.

“Scheduling the test in somewhere like Atlanta could take months, and equipment issues have sometimes prevented patient access for extended periods,” explains Dr. Yi. “Bringing the service locally definitely fills a needed gap for the patient population.”

Anorectal Manometry at UHA

To learn more or schedule an assessment for anorectal manometry, call 762-316-2035.