Theoretical Tools to Analyze Anorectal Mechanophysiological Data Generated by the Fecobionics Device

Abstract

A mechanical approach is needed for understanding anorectal function and defecation. Fecal continence is achieved by several interacting mechanisms including anatomical factors, anorectal sensation, rectal compliance, stool consistency, anal muscle strength, motility, and psychological factors. The balance is easily disturbed, resulting in symptoms such as fecal incontinence and constipation. Novel technologies have been developed in recent years for studying anorectal function. Especially, the Fecobionics device, a simulated feces, has gained attention recently. This facilitates new analysis of anorectal mechanical function. In this study, a theoretical model is developed to analyze anorectal mechanophysiological data generated by the Fecobionics device. Theoretical approaches can enhance future interdisciplinary research for unraveling defecatory function, sensory-motor disorders, and symptoms. This is a step in the direction of personalized treatment for gastrointestinal disorders based on optimized subtyping of anorectal disorders.

Mechanophysiological analysis of anorectal function using simulated feces in human subjects

“…Consequently Eq.6 can be derived from the Eqs. (5) , (6) in previous work by Gregersen and coauthors [18] , indicating the effectiveness of the current model. Furthermore, the proposed analysis framework can be used to simulate mechanical behavior of anorectum in patients suffering from defecatory disorders by combining monomeric and movement properties measured by Fecobionics.…”

“…To overcome technology pitfalls, we have developed a novel Fecobionics device [15] , [16] , [17] , [18] , [19] that integrates measurements from most current clinical tests and beyond for novel anorectal assessment. Fecobionics is an insertable device that provides high-resolution anorectal data on pressures, orientation, bending and shape during defecation of the device.…”

“…Fecobionics is a novel bionics device for studying defecation [15] , [16] , [17] , [18] , [19] . It integrates measurements from several technologies for obtaining physiologically relevant measures during defecation including pressure, orientation, bending and geometry of the distending bag.…”

“…Membrane stress resultants were , and , the longitudinal, shear and circumferential membrane tensions, respectively. Details about the definitions of these coordinates and geometric features have been published [18] .…”

Novel Bionics Assessment of Anorectal Mechanosensory Physiology

“…Within the past years a simulated stool named Fecobionics with the shape and properties of normal stool was developed [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Fecobionics records, in a single experiment, numerous parameters including pressures, bending, and shape changes during colonic transport and defecation of the device.…”