Many patients with pelvic floor problems do not respond well to increasing laxatives. These patients often have excessive or ineffective straining as a cause. RED helps identify those patients who need to be referred for proper treatment. RED also identifies patients with rectal hypersensitivity, which can often be the cause of urgency or feeling of incomplete evacuation.

No, hemorrhoids are not a contraindication. They are usually caused by excessive or ineffective straining. Thus, it is important to test for pelvic floor dysfunction. However, it is not recommended to do RED testing on the same day after hemorrhoid banding.

By asking the patient 1-3 questions regarding the need or urge to defecate (measure of hypersensitivity) once the balloon is inserted and inflated.

RED is a qualitative test to assess rectal hypersensitivity. RED, utilized as an expulsion device, can help screen for pelvic floor dysfunction in patients with chronic constipation.

ARM includes pressure measurements while connected to electronic equipment. RED does not connect to any other equipment.

There is no controller or box for the RED to connect to. Once inserted in the rectum, the stopcock is opened to ambient air, allowing the balloon to self-inflate with a proprietary foam that mimics the feel of stool. Thus, there is no need to connect to a box or controller.

If you cannot perform a rectal exam, the patient refuses a rectal exam, there is a mass, stricture, stenosis, or if there is pain during the digital rectal exam – DO NOT INSERT THIS DEVICE.

It is made from high-grade medical silicone and does not contain latex.