[Manometry of the anorectum].

Manometric studies of anorectal continence have been performed in pediatry and pediatric surgery since more than fifty years. The method permits a differential diagnosis of chronic constipation as well as an objective analysis of different degrees of severity in cases of anorectal incontinence. By manometric studies it is possible to show, whether a traumatic lesion is situated at the puborectalis sling or caused by a maximal delated rectum, a loss of sensitivity or disturbances of the anorectal sphincter. Therefore no therapy should be done without previous electromanometric analysis. The diagnose is base on the registration of different variables which are reliable to the rectal - puborectal- and anorectal sphincter function. It is a semiquantitative method like the EMG or the EEG. Outside the anorectal area manometric investigations are important as well to control sphincter function in the upper gastrointestinal tract and the lower abgenital urinary tract. For that reason special electromanometric laboratories should be established in greater pediatric hospitals and centers of pediatric surgery.