Pelvic Floor Testing (PFT) includes six individual tests, which can be used to identify specific conditions and give indications for specific treatment options. PFT is appropriate for patients experiencing fecal incontinence, and/or chronic constipation with signs of outlet obstruction. PFT tests specifically reveal diagnoses of rectocele, anismus (failure of pelvic floor to relax on defecation), rectal prolapse, and obstetrical or surgical sphincter injury.
The six Pelvic Floor Tests are:
Ano-Rectal Manometry (ARM)
Cutaneous Perineal Electromyography (EMG)
Recto-Anal Inhibitory Reflex (RAIR)
Sensory Volumes
Balloon Defecation Test
Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency (PNTML)
Pelvic Floor Testing enables the physician to specifically separate patients who can benefit from non-operative measures versus those who would achieve more benefit from surgical repair. If surgical repair is indicated, PFT will help determine the optimal surgical intervention. If surgical repair is not indicated, PFT will confirm this and enhance patient enthusiasm for non-operative management of their condition. PFT will also identify candidates for sacral nerve stimulation, a treatment expected to receive FDA approval very soon.
~ Therapeutic options indicated by PFT results include ~ Surgical Treatment Options
Rectopexy
Sphincter Repair
Rectocele Repair
Sphinter & Rectocele Repair (as a single operation)
Sacral Nerve Stimulation (when FDA approved )
Medical Treatment Options
Pelvic Floor Training
Dietary & Medical management of stool consistency and transit
Use of Pelvic Floor Testing has proven a valuable aid in determining patients for rectocele repairs with mesh as opposed to sutures, Sacral Nerve Stimulation trials, improving Sphincteroplasty success rate, Pelvic Floor Training for anismus, and Rectopexy with normal nerve function
Kitsap ColoRectal Surgery is currently offering Pelvic Floor Testing one day per month. Tests take approximately one hour for a complete study and a review of results and recommendations with the patient.
To schedule a patient for Pelvic Floor Testing,
Send a referral for PFT Evaluation to our fax line (360-377-4134).
Dr Green will see the patient in clinic and evaluate candidacy for Pelvic Floor Testing.
If indicated, we will schedule the patient for Pelvic Floor Testing.
Test results, interpretation, and recommendation will be returned to the referring physician upon completion.
Dr Green is available to discuss the details and benefits of Pelvic Floor Testing with referring physicians. If you would like to set up a visit to your office, please call Kathleen (360-377-4717 ext. 7).
