PURPOSE: Rectoanal reflex parameters were analyzed in multiparous. METHODS: Thirty-six patients with 4 to 6 (Group 1) and 10 patients with 1 to 3 (Group2) vaginal deliveries were submitted to anal manometry with four channel radial catheter. Various parameters of the rectoanal inhibitory reflex were analyzed in each quadrant at the anal canal highest pressure zone. RESULTS: There were significant differences in the anal pressures at the point of maximum relaxation curve among quadrants in Group 1 as well as with the anal resting pressure in Group 2. The comparision between Groups showed differences in anal resting pressure in posterior right lateral and left lateral quadrants as well as in posterior and left lateral at the maximum relaxation point. CONCLUSION: Radial differences in the anal pressure before relaxation and in rectoanal inhibitory reflex parameters are present; however there is not an obvious relevance under the clinical point of view.
Anus; manometry; methods; physiology
