Advancing the predictive accuracy of PNTML in rectal prolapse: An ongoing quest

Abstract

Fecal incontinence is a common symptom among patients with rectal prolapse. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML) testing can serve as a reference indicator for predicting the outcomes of rectal prolapse surgery, thereby assisting surgeons in formulating more appropriate surgical plans. The direct correlation between preoperative PNTML testing results and postoperative fecal incontinence in patients with rectal prolapse remains a contentious issue, necessitating further clarification. Thus, we analyze the existing publications from both clinical and statistical perspectives to comprehensively evaluate the accuracy of preoperative PNTML testing in rectal prolapse and provide some feasible statistical solutions.

Keywords: Rectal prolapse; Fecal incontinence; Anal manometry; Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency; Diagnosis; Surgical procedures

Core Tip: Precise diagnostic planning would help in choosing the most appropriate surgical procedure, which would help achieve better outcomes. We will comprehensively evaluate literatures on pudendal nerve terminal motor latency from both clinical and statistical perspectives and provide viable statistical solutions.