AAR and manometry, the order of data collection
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Anal Acoustic Reflectometry and manometry, the order of data collection.
IRAS ID
128558
Contact name
Karen Telford
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospital South Manchester
Research summary
Anal acoustic reflectometry (AAR) is a new technique that uses sound waves to measure properties of the anal canal. It is the best method we have to assess the natural function of the anal canal. AAR tells us the cross sectional area along the length of the canal while it is being opended by inflating a balloon. The assessment mimics opening and closing of the anal canal and the effect of squeezing the muscles. This information has never been available before.\n\nHistorically the gold standard investigation of the anal canal has been manometry which measures maximum resting and maximum squeeze pressures. However, it has significant limitations. Despite these 2 measurements being within normal ranges patients can still have significant symptoms of faecal incontinence, prompting clinicians to search for a better investigation to guide management in this difficult patient group.\n\nAAR has already shown promise in the assessment of faecal incontinence. Our previous studies have shown it to be a reproducible and reliable technique that, unlike manometry, is able to distinguish between different symptomatic subgroups with faecal incontinence and also correlate with symptom severity.\n\nWe propose a new study thats aims to further validate our methodology. We plan to measure AAR and manometry in patients with pelvic floor dysfunction. We want to know if the order of carrying out AAR and manometry affects the results. Patients will therefore be randomised to manometry then AAR or AAR then manometry.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/NW/0469
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion