The Anorectal Physiology Center at Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis is a new outpatient service dedicated to helping those with functional bowel disorders (FBD). The new center will provide diagnostic testing to assess FBD, including chronic constipation, prolapse and fecal incontinence.

These conditions are estimated to affect 20 percent of the adult population and often dramatically impact work, daily activities, and the enjoyment of life.

“Untreated functional bowel disorders can lead to other issues and can compromise quality of life,” said Joshua Katz, MD, a board certified colorectal surgeon and medical director of the Saint Francis Anorectal Physiology Center.

The Anorectal Physiology Center’s diagnostic procedures focus on problems in the following areas: chronic constipation or difficulty passing stool, anorectal pain, fecal incontinence or the involuntary passage of stool and rectal prolapse, when part of rectum is outside the anus. Patients are evaluated with the following tests: anorectal manometry, electromyography, defecography, Sensation Testing

The outpatient tests are performed at Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis. No anesthesia is required and no surgical procedures are performed. No fasting or other dietary changes are needed. Once tests are completed, patients can resume normal activities. Findings are reported to the patient’s referring physician for management or treatment.

“These outpatient tests can help determine who will benefit from medical management, pelvic floor retraining, and surgical intervention,” said Katz, “And ultimately help many patients improve their quality of life.”