DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES FACT SHEET

If you have been sent to The SKC Wong Centre for some tests, the following fact sheet will provide you information on what the tests are looking for and other information about the procedures. You may be having all of the procedures during your appointment, or just one or two, depending on what your doctor has asked for. In preparation for your tests, you may require an enema to be given by one of our nurses. This is to make sure your anus and rectum are completely empty for the procedures. Not everyone will require this.

Endoanal Ultrasound (3D Ultrasound)

Endoanal Ultrasound or “Anorectal” Ultrasound is a procedure using ultrasound scanning to see the condition of your anus or rectum. The procedure involves an ultrasound probe being inserted into your anus or “back passage” and pictures taken by the doctor of your anus and rectum and any damage caused by injury or by diseases such as cancers or colitis. The SKC Wong Centre at Bankstown Hospital uses the very latest in 3D Ultrasound scanning. The pictures taken by our machine can be viewed in all directions to allow your doctor the best possible view. The procedure may be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful and it should last no longer than 5 minutes.

Pudendal Nerve Study

The “pudendal nerves” are the nerves that control the muscles of your anus and the anal and bladder sphincters. These nerves can be damaged during child birth, during surgery (such as cancer surgery) or just simply not work properly. A Pudendal Nerve Study uses a computer to send a signal to the nerves and measure their reactions. This procedure involves the doctor inserting a very small electrode using his/her finger and then recording the results on the computer. You may feel a small “bump” sensation, and you will be asked to tell the Doctor when you feel it. It should not hurt, and the whole procedure takes no more than 5 minutes.

Manometry Study

This test involves a very thin and delicate catheter inserted into the anus to record the pressure in the anus and rectum. At first it will be inserted and left in there for about 3 minutes while the machine records the findings. Then you will be asked by the doctor to do some things (such as squeeze your muscles tightly or cough) to see the changes in the pressures. This will take another 3 minutes or so. If the doctor feels it necessary, they may wish to do a “balloon” test as part of the manometry study. This is where they will fill a small balloon inside your anus (the balloon is attached to the catheter) and ask you some questions. They may ask you to try and push the balloon out. This is all to see how strong your muscles are in making bowel motions. This procedure may be uncomfortable at times, but should not be painful.

If any procedure is becomes painful, please be sure to tell your doctor and they will stop the procedure immediately.