A. Shafik, Effect of magnetic stimulation on the electromechanical activity of the rectum: An experimental study, J INVES SUR, 13(2), 2000, pp. 103-110
We recently studied the effect of sacral magnetic stimulation (MS) on the r
ectal mechanical activity. The current communication investigates its effec
t on the rectal electric activity. Twelve mongrel dogs (weight 15.2+/-3.2 k
g, 7 male, 5 female) were anesthetized, the abdomen was opened, and three e
lectrodes were sutured to the rectal serosa. The rectal pressure was record
ed by a manometric catheter. The effect of sacral MS on the rectal electric
activity and pressure was recorded before and after anesthetization of the
sacral skin. Stimulation parameters were set at 70% intensity, 20 Hz frequ
ency, and 1 to 5 s burst activity. Sacral MS of the empty and full rectum e
ffected a significant increase of the rectal electric activity and pressure
as well as a decrease of the rectal neck (anal canal) pressure. MS of the
anesthetized sacral skin produced no significant changes in the rectal elec
tromechanical activity or the anal canal pressure. MS of the saline-injecte
d sacral skin produced rectal and anal changes similar to those without sal
ine injection. In conclusion, MS presumably produces its effect on the rect
um by increasing the rectal electric activity. It might provide a more conv
enient method for rectal evacuation than electrostimulation through implant
ed electrodes. The procedure is simple, easy, and noninvasive.