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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

2.1K
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,...
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Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal01:27

Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal

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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...
16.5K
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System III: Elimination01:26

Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System III: Elimination

1.7K
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...
1.7K
Feces Formation and Defecation01:26

Feces Formation and Defecation

6.5K
After spending 3 to 10 hours in the large intestine, chyme loses a lot of water and becomes feces, the final product of digestion. Feces consist of undigested dietary fiber such as cellulose, mucus, sloughed-off epithelial cells, and microbes. The descending and sigmoid colon stores feces and uses haustral contractions to dry it out but retains enough water to give it a semi-solid texture.
The mass peristalsis then pushes the feces into the rectum, which stretches the rectal walls to activate...
6.5K
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

1.2K
Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
1.2K
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation01:25

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

3.6K
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....
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 5, 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

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Anorectal physiology and testing.

Julie Ann M Van Koughnett1, Giovanna da Silva

  • 1Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida, 2950 Cleveland Clinic Boulevard, Weston, FL 33331, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|November 28, 2013
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Understanding anorectal physiology is key for diagnosing and treating disorders like fecal incontinence and constipation. This review covers essential diagnostic tests for anorectal function, aiding in patient care.

Keywords:
Anorectal physiologyDefecographyElectromyographyEndoanal ultrasoundManometry

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Related Experiment Videos

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology and Colorectal Surgery
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Anorectal physiology is crucial for diagnosing and treating common anorectal disorders.
  • Conditions such as fecal incontinence, constipation, and pain necessitate a thorough understanding of anorectal function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the fundamental aspects of anorectal physiology.
  • To detail the diagnostic investigations used for anorectal physiology disorders.

Main Methods:

  • The review covers key diagnostic tests including anal manometry, endoanal ultrasound, and defecography.
  • Additional methods discussed are the balloon expulsion test, MRI, pudendal nerve terminal motor latency, EMG, and colonic transit studies.
  • The article also addresses indications, procedural steps, and result interpretation for these investigations.

Main Results:

  • A comprehensive understanding of anorectal physiology is presented.
  • Various diagnostic tools for assessing anorectal function are detailed.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of anorectal disorders rely on a solid grasp of anorectal physiology.
  • The reviewed investigations provide a framework for evaluating and managing patients with these conditions.