Massimo Bellini is an Associate Professor of Medicine, and Head of the Digestive Physiopathology Section of the Gastroenterology Unit at the University of Pisa (Italy). He received his medical degree from the University of Pisa, where he also completed his training in gastroenterology prior to obtaining his doctoral degree in Clinic Physiopathology (University of Florence, Italy). His main research interests are digestive diseases, especially gastrointestinal motility disturbances and functional gastrointestinal disorders. He has taken part in numerous pharmacological Phase II, Phase III and Phase IV studies regarding the efficacy and safety of new drugs acting on gastric acid secretion, gastrointestinal motility and functional digestive disorders. In particular, he has participated in controlled, multicenter studies on the effects of ranitidine, famotidine, rabeprazole, esomeprazole, fedotozine, alosetron and probiotics. He authored more than 100 original papers published in international journals. He was member of the National Board of GISMAD (Italian Group for the Study of Digestive Motility) and he is currently Head of the Scientific National Committee of the Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Endoscopists (AIGO).

Broadens readers' understanding of both high resolution and high definition anorectal manometry

Includes a mini-atlas with normal and pathological images, as well as a glossary

Provides useful practical information for gastroenterologists and surgeons dealing with such issues

Preface.- Anorectal Functional Anatomy.- Anorectal functional anatomy and pathophysiology.- Anorectal manometry: does it improve pathophysiology knowledge?.- Concept and development of HRM: the way it works,- Difference between Conventional Anorectal Manometry and HRAM/HDAM.- Technical aspects and equipments.-Performing, analyzing and interpreting HRAM and HDAM recordings.- Atlas a)Normal pictures: normal anal sphincter, squeezing, straining; RAIR; rectal response to balloon distension; b)Functional defecation disorders; c) Fecal Incontinence; d)Hirschsprung's Disease; e) Artifacts.- Glossary.