PURPOSE: Rectoanal reflex parameterswere analyzed in multiparous.
METHODS: Thirty-six patients with 4 to 6 (Group 1) and 10 patients with1 to 3 (Group2) vaginal deliveries were submitted to anal manometry with fourchannel radial catheter. Various parameters of the rectoanal inhibitory reflexwere analyzed in each quadrant at the anal canal highest pressure zone.
RESULTS: There were significant differences in the anal pressures atthe point of maximum relaxation curve among quadrants in Group 1 as well aswith the anal resting pressure in Group 2. The comparision between Groups showeddifferences in anal resting pressure in posterior right lateral and left lateralquadrants as well as in posterior and left lateral at the maximum relaxationpoint.
CONCLUSION: Radial differences in the anal pressure before relaxationand in rectoanal inhibitory reflex parameters are present; however there isnot an obvious relevance under the clinical point of view.
