Third-degree obstetric perineal tear: long-term clinical and functional results after primary repair

Background This study was designed to investigate the long‐term clinical and anorectal functional results after primary repair of a third‐degree obstetrical perineal rupture. Methods One hundred and fifty‐six consecutive women who had a primary repair of a third‐degree perineal rupture were sent a questionnaire and asked to undergo anorectal function testing (anal manometry, anorectal sensitivity, anal endosonography and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML)) Results Some 117 women (75 per cent) responded. Anal incontinence was present in 47 women (40 per cent); however, in most cases only mild symptoms were present. In 40 women additional anorectal function tests were performed and compared with findings in normal controls. Mean(s.d.) maximum squeeze pressure (31(15) versus 63(17) mmHg, P