Rectal mucosal electrosensory testing-Evidence for a rectal sensory neuropathy in idiopathic constipation

Abstract

Rectal sensation is usually assessed using balloon distention. The authors describe a more precise technique that avoids the variables of balloon dynamics and rectal diameter and compliance. Using both methods, rectal sensation was assessed in 13 healthy control women and 26 women with severe idiopathic constipation. Balloon distention in the rectum revealed an elevated sensory threshold (16.9±4.4vs.30.4±3.1 ml air, controlsvs.patients, P=0.018) and volume required to elicit a call to stool (61.1±9.1vs.97.5±6.4, P=0.003) in subjects with severe constipation. The maximum tolerated volume was similar in the two groups. Rectal mucosal electrosensitivity was then tested using a bipolar ring elec..