The nerve latency is measured by an electrode which is worn on the finger. It stimulates the pudendal nerve and calculates the conduction time to the anal sphincter
Sacral nerve stimulation is the newest modality in treatment for anal incontinence. In it electrodes are placed via the sacral foramina. The nerve supply of anal sphincter is similar to lower extremity so their stimulation can lead to contraction of various foot muscles.
Q) 75 year old man complains of obstipation for 2 days. He has taken laxatives but continues to have worsening pain and distension associated with vomiting. He underwent b/l knee replacement 2 weeks back. He was on Inj fentanyl for pain control. He is on antihypertensives and lipid lowering agents for the past 15 years.
On examination he is afebrile, oriented, pulse rate of 100 min/, BP 120/60 and abdomen is distended with mild tenderness. There are no signs of peritonitis, bowel sounds are sluggish.
TLC is 6,500, and potassium is 3.2 . All other blood tests are normal. X ray abdomen and CT abdomen shows dilated large bowel loops and oral contrast upto splenic flexure.