Anorectal Physiology Lab

Patients across Central Massachusetts have access to the advanced diagnostic capabilities of the UMass Memorial Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, located at the Medical Center’s Memorial Campus in Worcester.  The Lab is the only resource in the region for advanced studies of the pelvic floor related to defecation (bowel movement) disorders.

UMass Memorial Anorectal Physiology Laboratory

The lab provides essential information for evaluating and managing patients with colon, rectal and anal disorders and cancers. Our colorectal surgeons use the latest 3D and ultrasound techniques for the assessment and staging of rectal cancers. Pelvic floor disorders are not uncommon and include conditions such as:

• Fecal incontinence, for which UMass Memorial now offers Sacral Nerve Stimulation and overlapping sphincteroplasty.
• Rectal prolapse (when the walls of the rectum protrude through the anus)
• Obstructed defecation/constipation as a result of rectoceles, enteroceles or sigmoidoceles (when organs compress or protrude into neighboring organs or structures such as the vagina or rectum) or dysfunctioning pelvic floor muscles

Testing and Screening Procedures for Anal and Rectal Conditions

The Anorectal Physiology Laboratory uses highly developed diagnostic technologies, including three-dimensional endorectal ultrasound, to help diagnose a wide variety of conditions. Our colorectal surgeons and technicians use the lab to evaluate common and rare conditions. We also offer many services on an urgent basis.

Colon and Rectal Surgery for the Central Massachusetts Area

Highly skilled colorectal surgeons at UMass Memorial Medical Center work as a team with experienced anesthesiologists and surgical nurses to offer colorectal surgical procedures and supportive follow-up care. Patient care services include:

• Anorectal conditions, like hemorrhoids, fistulas and abscesses
• Inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Diverticulitis
• Colon, rectal, anal and small bowel polyps and cancers 
• Endoscopy of the colon and rectum (colonoscopy, rigid and flexible sigmoidoscopy)
• Intestinal and anorectal physiology management for rectal prolapse, constipation and fecal incontinence

 Find a fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon.