Your gastroenterologist may want to perform anorectal manometry to evaluate certain anorectal malformations and Hirschsprung's disease. The anal and rectal muscles usually tighten to hold in a bowel movement and relax in order to pass it.

Are you awake for anorectal manometry?

It is not painful, but your child will need to be awake and will need to be still during the exam to get accurate results. Your child must have an empty rectum before the procedure, so you will be given cleanout instructions that need to be completed the night before the test.

How much does anorectal manometry cost?

Anorectal Manometry (ARM) equipment is expensive and difficult to maintain. A new fully equipped anorectal manometry machine with all the needed peripherals and a warranty can cost well over $45,000. Only clinics and practices performing large numbers of ARM studies can justify such an expense.