DYNAMIC RECTAL EXAMINATION - ITS SIGNIFICANT CLINICAL-VALUE

The aim of the present study was to carry out a proper correlation bet ween patients' clinical symptoms and the radiological findings obtaine d by dynamic rectal examination (DRE). At DRE, the small bowel and in females the vagina are routinely opacified in addition to defecography . A prospective study of 248 consecutive patients (193 women and 55 me n, ratio 3,5:1) and 14 control subjects was conducted. The parameters assessed included the anorectal angle, the position of the anorectal j unction, and the total movement of the pelvic floor during squeezing a nd defecation. Anatomical changes as rectoceles, enteroceles and intus susceptions were also observed. Based on the findings, the following c onclusions can be drawn. There is no indication for measurement of the central or posterior anorectal angle. The is no indication for measur ement of the perineal ascent, perineal descent, and anorectal junction level. Anterior rectoceles occur very frequently in females, and are only of clinical relevance if the patients need digital vaginal suppor t to facilitate defecation. DRE is a sensitive method for diagnosing e nteroceles and intussusceptions.