Abstract
Interactions between visceral, intestinal stimulation and autonomic cardiovascular function have received increasing attention over the last years. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of long-term continuous rectal distention on rectal tone and cardiovascular function at the threshold for first sensation of distention and moderate urge to defecate compared to a resting period without distention. Continuous isobaric rectal distention was performed in 13 healthy volunteers with a ten minute pressure tracking procedure at each subject's predetermined individual threshold for either moderate urge or first sensation, separated by a ten minute resting period. Rectal volume, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were determined continuously. RESULTS: Rectal tone decreased significantly over time at the threshold for moderate urge and first sensation. Cardiovascular measures remained stable over the distention procedures, except for a significant increase in systolic blood pressure at the threshold for moderate urge. DISCUSSION: The previously reported rectal accommodation response to rectal distention was confirmed. The increase in systolic blood pressure is most likely mediated through sympathetic efferent pathways.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 107-114 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Folia medica Cracoviensia |
Volume | 40 |
Issue number | 3-4 |
State | Published - 1999 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)