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Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

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Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:

Assessment of the Gastrointestinal System I: Subjective Data

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Assessing the gastrointestinal (GI) system is a complex process that begins with collecting subjective data. This data, collected through patient interviews, provides crucial insights into the patient's health history, perception patterns, and lifestyle habits, all contributing significantly to GI health.
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Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

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The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Published on: April 17, 2019

Anorectal physiologic evaluation of constipation.

Paula Denoya¹, Dana R Sands

¹Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL 33331, USA.

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery

|December 17, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Chronic constipation affects millions, with some cases requiring specialist evaluation. This review details physiologic tests like colonic transit studies and manometry used to diagnose conditions such as slow transit constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Keywords:

Constipation anorectal physiology defecography manometry

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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

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Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

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Published on: August 18, 2023

Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Colorectal Surgery
Physiology

Background:

Chronic constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder affecting a significant portion of the North American population.
While many cases resolve with lifestyle changes or laxatives, a subset of patients requires further investigation by specialists.
Common underlying issues in refractory constipation include slow transit constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

To describe the physiologic basis of diagnostic studies for chronic constipation.
To review the techniques employed in the evaluation of patients with refractory constipation.

Main Methods:

Colonic transit studies
Anorectal manometry
Cinedefecography
Electromyography
Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing

Main Results:

The article provides a detailed overview of the physiologic principles behind each diagnostic modality.
It outlines the practical application of these tests in clinical settings.

Conclusions:

Accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of chronic constipation is crucial for effective management.
Physiologic testing offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of complex constipation disorders.