A simplified method for anal ultrasonography: preliminary report.

Background: Anal endosonography (AES) is able to reliably visualize and identify anal sphincter abnormalities. However, dedicated probes are quite expensive. Aim: We describe a simple and less costly method to perform AES in a unit that already has echoendoscopes available by inserting the endoscope through a disposable anoscope filled with standard ultrasound gel. Patients: Subjects without anal abnormalities and patients with anal disease (abscesses, fistulas) were evaluated. Results: Good-quality images were obtained in both controls and patients, with optimal visualization of the anatomic structures and pathologic features. The latter (abscesses, fistulas) were always confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusions: This simple and less costly method allows to perform good-quality AES in units having echoendoscopes availability, without the need of a more expensive dedicated probe.