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Neuromuscular Reflexes of Rectal Continence

K K Varma1, Douglas Stephens1

  • 1Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne.

The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|December 22, 2017
PubMed

Insights

This study details the nerve pathways and muscles controlling rectal continence. Findings are based on pressure profiles in children with normal or abnormal rectums and spinal cord injuries, correlating with clinical continence.

Area of Science:

  • Physiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Rectal continence is crucial for quality of life.
  • Understanding the underlying neurological and muscular mechanisms is essential for managing continence disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the specific nerve pathways, reflex arcs, and sphincter muscles governing rectal continence.
  • To detail the sensory and motor mechanisms involved in maintaining fecal continence.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of anal and rectal pressure profiles in pediatric patients.
  • Inclusion of children with normal rectums, malformed rectums, and spinal cord injuries affecting neuromuscular control.
  • Correlation of pressure data with clinical continence status and anatomical findings.

Main Results:

  • Identification of key reflex arcs involved in rectal continence.
  • Characterization of the roles of specific sphincter muscles in sensory and motor control.
  • Demonstration of how anatomical abnormalities and neurological deficits impact continence mechanisms.

Conclusions:

  • The study provides a detailed map of the neuro-muscular control of rectal continence.
  • Findings enhance understanding of continence dysfunction in pediatric populations.
  • This knowledge can inform clinical strategies for managing rectal incontinence.

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