I had manometry tests a few days ago. The part where they insert a tube and you squeeze was fine. The part when a balloon was inflated was terribly painful, so I was unable to focus on the dr's explanation. What does that measure?

Also, I've been bleeding ever since (2 days). It does seem to be lessening in quantity, and it's no longer bright red blood, so I think it's getting better, but is this normal after this test? I'd hate to think the test itself harmed my j-pouch.

Thanks for any info.

I am no expert on this but Chris had this done when he was having unexplained pain. It was very painful as I recall.
I do not believe it could harm the pouch. I would think some bleeding would be expected.
Depends on how much and if it doesn't subside I would think a call to the Dr would give you peace of mind.
Jan has answered this in the past as to what it measures and I am not good with the terminology like Jan but it tests the strength of the sphincter muscle from my understanding.
Hope this helps a little.

Thanks, Holly. There's been less blood today. I'm still unclear how the balloon part of the test works.

I don't think bleeding is normal with anal manometry and you should inform your doctor. He may well say that he expected it and it is fine, but still, he should be informed.

My understanding is that the balloon portion of the exam is to time how long it takes you to expel it. It should not have been very painful.
http://www.motilitysociety.org/patient/pdf/Anorectal%20...n%208%205%202005.pdf

These symptoms lead me to think perhaps you have an anal stricture that was dilated during this procedure.

Jan

Thanks, Jan. The doctor doing the test (not my surgeon)told me to let him know when I felt "anything" when he inflated the balloon. He never asked me to bear down or try to expel it.

After he deflated the balloon and removed it, he said I might notice a little blood, and that it was painful because my j-pouch had not been stretched(I'm 6 weeks post-op & have a loop ileo).

The anastomosis was handsewn with this new pouch since there is no rectal tissue left. I think I've read that this increases the likelihood of developing anal strictures??

At any rate, the bleeding has now stopped. But I am having to empty more watery mucous from the pouch than normal. So maybe it stretched out a stricture.

I'll take your advice and let my surgeon know about the pain and the blood. thanks.