Update and review of functional anorectal disorders testing - standardized protocol for high-resolution anorectal manometry and London classification

Abstract

Complex anorectal examination including a detailed medical history, physical proctological examination and evaluation of the sensorimotor and structural function of the anorectum is essential for the diagnosis and therapeutic management of functional anorectal dysfunction. The aim of the work is to provide an overview of diagnosing functional anorectal disorders according to the new update and consensus statement of the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group (IAPWG) with a focus on indications, a standardized examination protocol and introduction of the new London classification of anorectal dysfunction. The indications are: fecal incontinence, defecation disorders, functional pelvic (anorectal) pain, evaluation before an anorectal intervention and before planned delivery to assess the function of a previously traumatized anal sphincter. Standardization of the diagnosis and the evaluated data are the basis for multidisciplinary cooperation and determination of a treatment plan for each patient individually.