Intrarectal and intra-anal ultrasonography in the evaluation of colorectal pathology.

Recent advances in ultrasonography have improved significantly the accuracy and applicability of this technology to the management of anorectal pathology. Intrarectal ultrasonography has demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in the assessment of extent of local invasion of rectal carcinomas as well as the degree of regional lymph adenopathy. It also is capable of playing a significant role in the management of anorectal suppurative disorders by allowing identification of deep-seeded abscesses. This technology will play an expanding role in the management of anorectal disorders and should be in the armamentarium of the surgeon managing these problems.