Anorectal manometry test measuring anal sphincter pressure and rectal muscles at Thrissur Piles Clinic

Anorectal Manometry Test: Meaning, Procedure, Cost & Why It Is Done?

Are you struggling with chronic constipation, difficulty passing stool, or unexpected bowel leakage? These symptoms often happen when the rectal muscles and anal sphincter do not work in proper coordination. To find the exact cause, doctors recommend a specialized diagnostic procedure called the Anorectal Manometry Test. This test measures pressure, muscle strength, and nerve response in the anorectal region, helping identify problems that routine scans may miss.

At Thrissur Piles Clinic, Dr. Raviram S., an expert Proctologist in Thrissur uses this advanced test to precisely evaluate your bowel function. This guide explains the manometry meaning, the procedure, updated costs, and what your results actually mean—in simple words.

What Is Anorectal Manometry?

Anorectal Manometry is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to evaluate the function of the anal sphincter and rectal muscles.

Manometry Definition: In medical terms, “manometry” refers to the measurement of pressure using a device called a manometer.
The Goal: The test measures the manometry pressure—specifically, how strong your anal muscles are and whether they relax or tighten correctly when you try to pass stool.

Think of it as a “strength and coordination test” for your bottom. It helps doctors differentiate between simple dietary issues and complex functional disorders like Dyssynergic Defecation (where muscles fight against each other).

Why Is Anorectal Manometry Done?

Dr. Raviram S. may recommend this test if you have symptoms that don’t improve with basic treatments. Common reasons include:

Chronic Constipation: When you feel the urge but cannot pass stool (obstructed defecation).
Fecal Incontinence: Uncontrolled leakage of stool or gas (weak anal sphincter).
Hirschsprung’s Disease: To check for missing nerve cells in the rectum (common in children but also diagnosed in adults).
Pre-Surgery Evaluation: Before surgeries for piles, fistula, or fissure, a Proctologist in Thrissur may need to ensure your sphincter muscles are strong enough to handle the procedure.

Dr. Raviram’s Note: “Many patients confuse pelvic floor weakness with simple constipation. Manometry gives us the data to stop guessing and start treating.”

How the Anorectal Manometry Procedure Is Done?

The thought of a rectal test can be anxious, but the procedure is painless and quick (usually 15–30 minutes). You will not be lying on the floor; you will be comfortable on a specialized examination bed.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Preparation: You may be asked to use an enema 2 hours before the test to clear the rectum. No sedation is needed.

2. Positioning: You will lie on your left side with your knees bent.

3. Insertion: A small, flexible tube (catheter) about the size of a thermometer is gently inserted into the rectum. A small balloon at the tip may be inflated.

4. Measurements:

Resting Pressure: The machine records the pressure when you are relaxed.
Squeeze Pressure: You will be asked to squeeze your anus (like holding in a bowel movement) to test the anal sphincter meaning strength.
Push Maneuver: You will be asked to bear down (push) as if defecating.

5. Sensation Test: The balloon is slowly inflated to see at what volume you first feel the “urge” to go.

What Do Manometry Pressure Results Show?

The results are displayed as a graph showing waves of pressure.

Normal Results: Your rectal muscles push while your anal sphincter relaxes to let stool out.
Abnormal Results (Dyssynergia): Paradoxical contraction—where you push, but the sphincter tightens instead of opening. This is a common cause of severe constipation.
Weak Sphincter: Low manometry pressure indicates weakness, explaining incontinence.

What is the Anorectal Manometry Test Cost?

The anorectal manometry test cost in India typically ranges between ₹4,000 to ₹8,000, depending on the hospital facility, technology used, doctor’s expertise, and whether additional evaluation is required.

In Kerala, the cost is generally more affordable, ranging from ₹3,500 to ₹6,500, especially when compared to major metro cities.

At Thrissur Piles Clinic, transparent and patient-friendly pricing is shared after consultation. However, choosing a center should not be based on cost alone. Accurate diagnosis, advanced equipment, and expert evaluation are far more important than price when it comes to your health.

Are There Any Risks?

The Anorectal Manometry test is extremely safe. There is a very remote possibility (rare chance) of:

Mild discomfort.
Spotting (light bleeding) if you have active hemorrhoids.
Perforation (extremely rare, less than 1 in 10,000 cases).

Why Choose Dr. Raviram S. for Anorectal Evaluation?

When dealing with sensitive issues like fistula, piles, or incontinence, you need an expert who understands the delicate balance of pelvic floor mechanics.

Dr. Raviram S. is a leading Gastro Surgeon & Laser Proctologist in Kerala with unique credentials:

Qualifications: MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology) from Govt Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram.
Experience: Awarded “Best Outgoing Student,” bringing academic excellence and surgical precision to every case.
Holistic Care: He is not just a Piles Specialist in Thrissur; he creates comprehensive treatment plans involving diet, biofeedback, and laser therapy based on your Manometry results.

His experience in treating piles, fissure, fistula, and pelvic floor disorders ensures precise diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Final Thoughts: Is It Necessary?

If you have been taking laxatives for years without relief, or if surgery is being considered, Anorectal Manometry is essential. It prevents “blind treatment” and ensures you get the right cure.

Don’t suffer in silence. For the best Anorectal Manometry test and expert interpretation, visit Thrissur Piles Clinic.

Book Your Appointment with Dr. Raviram S.