OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of preoperative high-resolution anorectal manometry-assisted pelvic floor muscle exercises on anal function recovery in children with tethered cord syndrome. METHODS: Totally 68 cases of patients with tethered cord syndrome were divided into a study group (n = 38)and a control group (n = 38). The high-resolution anorectal manometry was performed preoperatively for evaluation of functions of the anal canal. The control group received routine nursing and health education, and the study group received an intervention of exercise for strengthening levator ani muscles. The results of anorectal pressure measurement were analyzed during postoperative follow-up, and the recovery of anal function was compared between two groups. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in anal canal resting pressure and maximum anal squeeze pressure between two groups before surgery (p > 0.05). After a three-month followup, better outcomes of anal canal resting pressure, rectal sensitivity test and maximum anal squeeze pressure were measured in the study group compared with that in the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Based on the evaluation results of preoperative anorectal pressure measurement, targeted pelvic floor muscle exercises can help children with anal function recovery.

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