Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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How can this test help ?
The anorectal physiology test looks at how the anal area functions and may be carried out in addition to other tests (undertaken in other departments) such as endo-anal ultrasound, MR proctogram or transit study.
Together, these tests provide the information necessary to help your doctor determine the cause of your symptoms and select the best treatment for them. This will help your doctor to treat you in the best way possible and therefore help to relieve your symptoms.
This test has been requested by your consultant/specialist nurse so they can determine what is causing your bowel problems and decide on appropriate treatment. The most common problems we see are faecal incontinence and constipation (where your poo doesn’t happen regularly and is hard to pass).
How should I prepare for the test?
No preparation is required for the test, and you do not need to be accompanied to the hospital. You may eat and drink normally before and after the test and continue all prescribed medications as normal.
Do not worry if you are menstruating, this will not affect the test. Do not worry if you wear continence pads or if you have not opened your bowels.
Asking for your consent
The test will be explained to you fully when you come to the department, and you will have the chance to ask any questions that you might have. Please do not hesitate to ask questions or voice any worries. If you decide to go ahead with the test, you are confirming that you agree to have the test and understand what it involves. You will be asked to sign a consent form to undergo this test.
What to expect during the test:
Before starting the test, a medical history is taken. This will include specific questions about your bowel symptoms, medication or surgery which might affect your bowels, and, if applicable, your childbearing history.
After your history is taken the testing will start. You will be asked to lie on a bed, on your side, with your bottom exposed. The clinician performing the test may be accompanied by another member of staff who will assist and act as a chaperone. S
mall probes will be inserted into your back passage to take the measurements. Gel is used to make this more comfortable; the probes are no bigger than your little finger and only pass approximately ten centimetres into your bottom.
You will be asked to squeeze and use your muscles, cough and to report when you experience particular sensations. You will also have a test to ensure that the sensory nerves around the back passage are working normally and that you can feel normal sensations.
The session usually lasts around half an hour. The test is not painful and so sedation is not necessary. However, you might find the test a little embarrassing, and may experience slight discomfort if you are already sore in that region. If you are already sore please discuss this during your consultation.
What should I expect after the test?
You will be able to travel home and continue with your normal activities immediately after the test.
What are the risk of having the test?
We will talk to you about any possible discomfort associated with these tests before starting. Having a small probe inserted into your back passage may feel uncomfortable and strange. We will try to put you at ease to minimise any embarrassment.
When will I know the result?
You will be told if any information is immediately apparent, but the recording needs to be carefully analysed before a diagnosis can be made. The results are sent back to the doctor or consultant who referred you to the tests. You should allow two weeks for the results to reach them.
What is anorectal physiology?
Anorectal physiology refers to a set of measurements which examine the way the muscles and nerves around the anal canal are working. As well as taking the measurements, taking a careful history of your symptoms is a key part of the test
If you are having trouble opening or controlling your bowels, an anorectal physiology test will help us to find out why. In the test we measure the pressure inside the anus and the rectum to see how well the muscles are working.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Endoscopy service.
About this information
Service:
Endoscopy
Reference:
H/062
Approval date:
17 February 2026
Review date:
1 February 2028
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.