Anorectal balloon catheters are specialized medical devices integral to manometry procedures. They feature a small, inflatable balloon at the tip, allowing precise measurement of rectal sensation, compliance, and reflexes.
Key Benefits
- Accurate Assessment: Balloon inflation mimics the physiological process of stool passage, enabling clinicians to evaluate both sensory and motor responses in a controlled manner.
- Therapeutic Applications: Beyond diagnosis, balloon catheters are used in biofeedback therapy for sensory retraining, especially in patients with defecatory disorders. Studies show that using balloon catheters can help improve maximal anal squeeze pressures and patient confidence.
- Patient Comfort: Modern balloon catheters are designed for minimal discomfort, with sizes smaller than an average bowel movement and materials that reduce irritation.