Premium
Acute lumbosacral nerve stimulation does not affect anorectal motor function in a rodent model
Author(s) -
Devane L. A.,
Evers J.,
Scott M. S.,
Knowles C. H.,
O'Connell P.,
Jones J. F. X.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
neurogastroenterology and motility
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.489
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1365-2982
pISSN - 1350-1925
DOI - 10.1111/nmo.12733
Subject(s) - external anal sphincter , internal anal sphincter , fecal incontinence , medicine , lumbosacral joint , stimulation , urethral sphincter , anal canal , distension , reflex , pelvic floor , sphincter , pudendal nerve , anatomy , anesthesia , rectum , urethra , surgery
Background Sacral nerve stimulation has become a first line treatment for fecal incontinence, however, its effect on the motor function of the anorectum is uncertain. The aim of this study was to apply acute lumbosacral nerve stimulation in an animal model and to determine its effect on the external and internal anal sphincter forces, the rectoanal inhibitory and excitatory reflexes, and the slow wave frequency of the internal anal sphincter. Methods Lumbosacral nerve stimulation was applied to 16 nulliparous female rats. A novel in vivo preparation was designed to allow simultaneous monitoring of external and internal anal sphincter forces. The effect of rectal distension on the two anal sphincters was also studied. Key Results Lumbosacral nerve stimulation delivered at either S 1 or L 6 in rodents did not affect sphincter forces, rectoanal reflexes or slow wave frequency of anal canal smooth muscle. Conclusions & Inferences The absence of effect on the motor pathways of continence suggests that the mechanism of action is predominantly on sensory feedback mechanisms from the anorectum, thereby increasing cortical awareness of the pelvic floor.