[Endosonography of the anal canal in functional disorders of the pelvic flow. Initial experiences].

Nine patients were examined by anal endosonography for pelvic floor disorder. Internal anal sphincter thickness was correlated with sphincter function. Six patients with idiopathic incontinence showed a reduction of internal anal sphincter thickness, one patient with outlet obstruction due to chronic anal fissure showed an increase of thickness. Traumatic lesions could be precisely localized because of defects in both internal and external anal sphincter. Anal endosonography can be recommended in the evaluation of pelvic floor disorders.