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Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

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
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Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction

Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction

Chronic bowel diseases are a group of long-term conditions affecting the digestive tract, characterized by inflammation and damage to the gut lining. These conditions primarily include irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
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Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal or GI motility disorders are characterized by irregular gastrointestinal tract movements, disrupting food transit from the mouth to the anus. They are caused by damage or dysfunction in gut muscles or nerves. These disorders can cause symptoms such as severe constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and swallowing difficulties. Disorders can affect any segment of the GI tract and range widely in severity, from common conditions like GERD to life-threatening conditions like...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Introduction

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Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of chronic disorders marked by recurrent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract due to an abnormal immune response against gut microflora. This leads to tissue damage. The two main forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.Crohn’s DiseaseCrohn’s disease is a relapsing inflammatory disorder that can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. It involves all layers of the bowel wall (transmural) and shows...

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...

Other Disorders of Digestive System

Other Disorders of Digestive System

The gastrointestinal tract is susceptible to various disorders. If the lower esophageal sphincter is damaged, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the lining. This condition is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (known as heartburn) and may cause chest pain and difficulty swallowing. In the stomach, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, chronic alcohol consumption, bacterial infections such as Helicobacter...

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A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings

Published on: November 9, 2016

Common anorectal disorders.

Amy E Foxx-Orenstein¹, Sarah B Umar¹, Michael D Crowell¹

¹Dr Foxx-Orenstein is an associate professor, Dr Umar is an assistant professor, and Dr Crowell is a professor in the Division of Gastroenterology at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology

|July 3, 2014

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This review covers common anorectal disorders like hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It guides healthcare providers on evaluating and managing these conditions, from benign to malignant cases.

Keywords:

Hemorrhoid anal fissure excessive perineal descent fecal incontinence fistula proctalgia fugax pruritus ani rectoanal abscess

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Colorectal Surgery
Clinical Medicine

Background:

Anorectal disorders are a frequent reason for specialist consultations.
These conditions range from benign issues like hemorrhoids to severe conditions including malignancy.
Familiarity with anorectal disorders and proper examination techniques is crucial for clinicians.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the most common anorectal disorders.
To provide guidelines for the comprehensive evaluation and management of these conditions.

Main Methods:

Literature review of common anorectal disorders.
Synthesis of current guidelines for evaluation and management.

Main Results:

Common anorectal disorders discussed include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal incontinence, proctalgia fugax, excessive perineal descent, and pruritus ani.
Guidelines for history taking and physical examination are presented.
Management strategies for various anorectal conditions are outlined.

Conclusions:

Effective management of anorectal disorders requires a thorough understanding of their presentation and appropriate diagnostic approaches.
Clinicians should be proficient in evaluating and managing a spectrum of anorectal conditions to ensure optimal patient care.