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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

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.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation01:25

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Introduction
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.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection.
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System III: Elimination01:26

Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System III: Elimination

The gastrointestinal elimination process involves a complex interplay of neural and hormonal mechanisms that coordinate the final waste removal from the body. This intricate operation encompasses the absorption of water and electrolytes, vital for transforming the remaining indigestible food matter into feces. The large intestine is pivotal in water and electrolyte absorption, forming feces from unabsorbed minerals, undigested food, bacteria, bile pigments, and shed epithelial cells. Essential...
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy01:25

Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy

The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:
Anatomy of the Intestines01:23

Anatomy of the Intestines

Although digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids may begin in the stomach, it is completed in the intestine. The absorption of nutrients, water, and electrolytes from food and drink also occurs in the intestine. The intestines can be divided into two structurally distinct organs—the small and large intestines.
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the small...
Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal01:27

Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal

Rectal temperature measurement is considered the most precise method for assessing core body temperature and typically registers higher than oral temperature. For adults, the rectal thermometer should be inserted 1 to 1.5 inches into the rectum to obtain the most accurate reading.
Follow these steps for rectal temperature assessment:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to prevent cross-infection.
Step 2: Position the patient in a side-lying position to better visualize the rectal...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
07:41

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

Published on: April 17, 2019

Anorectal physiology: test and clinical application.

Hyeon-Min Cho1

  • 1Department of Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.

Journal of the Korean Society of Coloproctology
|December 15, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Understanding anorectal physiology is key to diagnosing and treating related disorders. Advanced diagnostic methods provide insights into complex anorectal function and dysfunction.

Keywords:
Anorectal physiologic testAnorectal physiologyBiofeedback therapy

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Physiological Experimentation with the Crayfish Hindgut: A Student Laboratory Exercise
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Physiological Experimentation with the Crayfish Hindgut: A Student Laboratory Exercise

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Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
07:41

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

Published on: April 17, 2019

Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System
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Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System

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Physiological Experimentation with the Crayfish Hindgut: A Student Laboratory Exercise
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Physiological Experimentation with the Crayfish Hindgut: A Student Laboratory Exercise

Published on: January 18, 2011

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology and Physiology
  • Colorectal Surgery

Background:

  • The anorectal region's physiology is intricate.
  • Recent investigations have improved understanding of its complex function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the importance of understanding anorectal anatomy and physiology for effective disease management.
  • To highlight the role of advanced diagnostic techniques in evaluating anorectal disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Anorectal manometry
  • Defecography
  • Continence tests
  • Electromyography of the anal sphincter and pelvic floor
  • Nerve stimulation tests

Main Results:

  • These methods provide a clearer picture of anorectal disease mechanisms.
  • Diagnostic techniques demonstrate pathophysiologic abnormalities in patients with anorectal disorders.

Conclusions:

  • A thorough understanding of anorectal anatomy and physiology is essential for optimal therapeutic recommendations.
  • Advanced diagnostic evaluations are crucial for diagnosing and managing anorectal region disorders.