A Key Tool in Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

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An anorectal expulsion balloon catheter is a diagnostic tool used to assess defecatory disorders like pelvic floor dyssynergia. The catheter is inserted into the rectum, inflated with water or air, and the patient is asked to expel it. Failure to do so may indicate impaired coordination of pelvic muscles, aiding diagnosis and treatment planning.

Pelvic floor disorders can be difficult to diagnose, often presenting with vague or overlapping symptoms like chronic constipation or fecal incontinence. One crucial diagnostic tool that has gained prominence in gastroenterology and colorectal practices is the Anorectal Expulsion Balloon Catheter.

What is an Anorectal Expulsion Balloon Catheter?

An Anorectal Expulsion Balloon Catheter is a sterile medical device used in diagnosing dyssynergic defecation. It replicates the mechanics of a bowel movement by inflating a balloon within the rectum, helping to assess a patient’s ability to expel it voluntarily.

Why is This Test Important?

This test is a key part of anorectal manometry and is used to:

• Evaluate chronic constipation and incomplete evacuation
• Diagnose pelvic floor dyssynergia
• Support clinical decisions around biofeedback therapy and other interventions

Key Features

• Soft, flexible balloon for safe and comfortable use
• Standardized 50 mL inflation protocol
• Dual-lumen construction (in select versions)
• Single-use, sterile packaging for infection control

Learn more or purchase here.

Procedure Overview

1. The catheter is inserted into the rectum.
2. The balloon is inflated with water (typically 50 mL).
3. The patient attempts to expel the balloon.
4. Results are assessed: failure to expel within 1–2 minutes may indicate dysfunction.

Who Uses It?

This tool is widely used by:

• Gastroenterologists
• Colorectal surgeons
• GI motility labs
• Pelvic floor therapists

Explore more at PelvicTech.com — your trusted partner in pelvic health diagnostics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the anorectal expulsion test used for?

It’s used to evaluate pelvic floor dysfunction, especially dyssynergic defecation, where patients have trouble coordinating muscles during bowel movements.

How does the anorectal balloon catheter work?

A small balloon is inserted into the rectum and inflated. The patient tries to expel it, mimicking a natural bowel movement. The test measures coordination and muscle strength.

What does it mean if I can’t expel the balloon?

Inability to expel the balloon in under 1–2 minutes may indicate pelvic floor dysfunction, which can be treated with therapies like biofeedback.

Is the test painful or risky?

No. The procedure is non-invasive, quick, and safe when performed with a high-quality, sterile balloon expulsion catheter.

Where can I buy an anorectal expulsion balloon catheter?

You can purchase directly from PelvicTech’s official store, a trusted provider of GI diagnostic tools.