This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS

Predictive value of internal anal sphincter thickness for diagnosis of rectal intussusception in patients with solitary rectal ulcer syndrome. BJS 2002; 89: 1281-1285.

Published: 29th November 2002

Authors: M. Marshall, S. Halligan, T. Fotheringham, C. Bartram, R. J. Nicholls

Background

The aim of this study was to determine any association between a thickened internal anal sphincter (IAS) on anal endosonography and high‐grade rectal intussusception on evacuation proctography in patients with solitary rectal ulcer syndrome.

Method

Anal endosonography was performed in 20 patients with solitary rectal ulcer syndrome and IAS thickness defined as normal or abnormal depending on age. Sphincter thickness was compared with the presence or absence of high‐grade intussusception on subsequent evacuation proctography to determine any relationship between the two.

Results

Thirteen patients had an abnormally thick IAS, two of whom were unable to evacuate. Of the remaining 11 patients, ten showed high‐grade intussusception (positive predictive value 91 per cent). Only three of seven patients with a normal IAS had high‐grade intussusception (negative predictive value 57 per cent). Patients with a thick IAS were significantly more likely to have proctographic evidence of high‐grade intussusception (P = 0·047).

Conclusion

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