Abstract
Background
A consistent debate exists about the association between anal fissure and hypertonic anal canal. The aim of this study was to determine if the manometric findings in patients with chronic anal fissures varied according to the topography of the fissure.
Patients and methods
Seventy-three outpatients (52 men, 71%) with chronic anal fissures and nine healthy volunteers (5 men, 55%) were examined. Patients were classified according to the topography of the anal fissures: posterior midline (group A), anterior midline (group B), and lateral position (group C). We use computerized anorectal manometry to evaluate anal resting pressure, maximal voluntary contraction, recto-anal inhibitory reflex, rectal sensations and rectum compliance.
Results
In Group A, the mean pressure was higher than that of controls (p<0.05), and the resting pressure 2 cm from anal verge was higher than that of other groups and controls (p<0.05). Normotonic anal canal was found in 49.1% of patients in group A, in 66% of those in group B and in 57.1% of those in group C. Four elderly patients (7%) of group A had a hypotonic anal canal. No differences were found regarding maximal voluntary contraction, recto-anal inhibitory reflex, rectal sensations and rectum compliance between patients and controls.
Conclusions
Patients with chronic anal fissures may have several anal pressure profiles. The anal canal is often normotonic. Fissures with hypertonic or normo-hypotonic anal canal need different therapies.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Bove, A., Balzano, A., Perrotti, P. et al. Different anal pressure profiles in patients with anal fissure. Tech Coloproctol 8, 151–157 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10151-004-0079-z
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10151-004-0079-z