The study provides a large healthy volunteer dataset and parameters of traditional measures of anorectal function. A number of novel phenomena are appreciated, the significance of which will require further analysis and comparisons with patient populations.

This study defines normal ranges for anorectal dimensions and parameters of emptying, as well as the incidence and characteristics of rectal-wall 'abnormalities' observed or derived from EP. These ranges can be applied clinically for subsequent disease comparison.

No abstract

There is considerable disagreement between the results of various tests used to diagnose ED and FDD. This highlights the need for a reappraisal of both diagnostic criteria, and what represents the 'gold standard' investigation.