Myoelectric and motor activity after proctocolectomy and ileal pouch–anal anastomosis in dogs * **

Abstract Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the motor function of the ileoanal pouch and to evaluate its coordination with proximal small-intestine motility. Methods: Proctocolectomy and ileal J pouch–anal anastomosis were performed in 12 dogs. Motility was recorded by serosal electrodes and strain gauge transducers. Results: Transmission of the migrating motor complex (MMC) on the pouch appeared in only 37 of 109 measurements. On the ascending limb there was a constant irregular activity with no MMC detectable. Motility pattern of the pouch did not change postprandially. Spontaneous defecation always appeared independently from MMC transmission without an increase of electrical or mechanical activity or endoluminal pouch pressure. Conclusions: Ileal pouch motility is independent from motility patterns of the proximal intestine. Its random contractile activity might provide storage function and make the pouch act as a functional reservoir. Intrinsic pouch motility is not responsible for pouch evacuation under physiologic conditions. (Surgery 2000;127:170-7.)