Anorectal balloon catheters are designed for clinicians who perform the balloon expulsion test and anorectal biofeedback therapy in patients with defecatory disorders. Each catheter features a non-latex balloon, clear placement markings, and tubing compatible with solid-state and water-perfused motility systems to support accurate, reproducible testing and training.
Who are these anorectal balloon catheters for?
These catheters are intended for use in anorectal manometry labs, pelvic floor physical therapy practices, and colorectal clinics that evaluate and treat patients with chronic constipation, pelvic floor dyssynergia, fecal incontinence, and other functional bowel disorders. They are designed for use by trained healthcare professionals who perform balloon expulsion testing and rectal balloon biofeedback as part of comprehensive anorectal assessment and therapy.
Key features & clinical benefits
- Used during the balloon expulsion test and anorectal biofeedback to assess and retrain pelvic floor function.
- Available in single-use and reusable options to match different clinic workflows and cost considerations.
- Non-latex, high-capacity balloons (typically 400 mL) support use in latex-sensitive patients and realistic rectal distension.
- Soft, specially designed PVC tubing helps facilitate gentle intubation and patient comfort during rectal balloon insertion.
- Graduated depth markings on the catheter help standardize balloon placement and improve reproducibility between sessions.
- Compatible with solid-state and water-perfused motility systems so they can be integrated into existing anorectal manometry setups.
- Support both diagnostic assessment (balloon expulsion test) and therapeutic rectal balloon biofeedback programs for defecatory disorders.
How is the balloon expulsion test performed?
The balloon expulsion test (BET) is a straightforward procedure that evaluates a patient's ability to expel a small balloon from the rectum, simulating stool passage. A thin catheter with an attached balloon is gently inserted into the rectum and the balloon is inflated with air or warm water to a defined volume. The patient is then asked to expel the balloon, and the time required, along with any difficulty, helps the clinician identify defecatory disorders and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Representative product specifications
| Parameter | Typical value / description |
|---|---|
| Balloon volume capacity | 400 mL non-latex balloon |
| Tubing length | Approx. 60 cm (23 5/8 in) flexible PVC tubing |
| Use type | Single-use or reusable options, depending on the product SKU |
| Material (balloon) | Latex-free construction for patients with latex sensitivity |
| Material (tubing) | Soft PVC, designed to support easy rectal intubation |
| Markings | Graduated depth markings for consistent balloon placement |
| Compatible systems | Solid-state and water-perfused motility systems (see individual product specifications) |
| Intended procedures | Balloon expulsion test, rectal sensation and compliance testing, rectal balloon biofeedback training |
How do I choose between single-use and reusable catheters?
Single-use anorectal balloon catheters support sterile, one-time procedures and simplified infection control workflows, which may be preferred in some hospital and clinic environments. Reusable models can be reprocessed and used multiple times according to the manufacturer's instructions for use, offering long-term cost efficiencies for high-volume motility labs and pelvic floor centers that have established reprocessing protocols.
Ordering & compatibility
This collection includes several configurations, such as single-use air-filled catheters, air/water-compatible catheters, and reusable expulsion balloon catheters. Each product listing provides specific details on catalog numbers, packaging units, and compatible anorectal manometry systems so you can confirm fit with your current equipment. For bulk purchasing, international orders, or questions about system compatibility, please contact our team or request a quote.
FAQs
What procedures are these anorectal balloon catheters designed for?
These catheters are used for the balloon expulsion test, rectal sensation and compliance assessment, and rectal balloon biofeedback-based bowel retraining as part of anorectal manometry and pelvic floor therapy programs.
Are these catheters suitable for patients with latex allergy?
The catheters in this collection use non-latex balloons and latex-free construction, making them suitable for patients with latex sensitivity when used according to the instructions for use and local infection control policies.
What equipment do I need to use these catheters?
Clinicians typically use a luer-lock syringe and, when needed, a three-way stopcock for controlled balloon inflation and deflation. In anorectal manometry labs, the catheters can be connected to compatible solid-state or water-perfused motility systems for combined diagnostic testing and biofeedback applications.
Clinical context & important information
Content on this page is intended for healthcare professionals and does not replace formal training, institutional protocols, or clinical judgment in anorectal manometry and rectal balloon biofeedback therapy. Clinicians should follow applicable guidelines and the full instructions for use for each specific product when performing the balloon expulsion test or biofeedback procedures.
