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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

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.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
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The large intestine is divided into three main regions: the cecum, colon, and rectum. Extending from the ileocecal valve to the anus, it frames the small intestine on three sides.
The ileocecal sphincter, a mucous membrane fold, guards the opening from the ileum to the large intestine. This valve permits material from the small intestine to pass into the large intestine. Attached to the ileocecal valve is the cecum. This small pouch, approximately 6 cm long, has a twisted, coiled tube known as...
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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.
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Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum01:26

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The muscles of the pelvic floor and perineum are crucial for supporting the pelvic organs, controlling continence, and aiding in sexual function, childbirth, and core stability. They are typically divided into the superficial perineal layer and the deep pelvic floor layer.
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
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The lower urinary system consists of the urinary bladder and urethra, which are essential in storing and expelling urine from the body. Together with the internal and external sphincters, these structures work together to regulate urination effectively.Anatomy of the BladderThe urinary bladder is a muscular, stretchable organ behind the pubic bone and in front of the rectum. In females, the bladder is positioned anterior to the vagina and inferior to the uterus, while in males, it is located...
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

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Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
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Anorectal Anatomy and Function.

Ravinder K Mittal1, Lori J Tuttle2

  • 1Department of Medicine/Gastroenterology, University of California, San Diego, ACTRI, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0061, La Jolla, CA 92093-0990, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|February 9, 2022
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Novel imaging and manometry techniques reveal detailed pelvic floor muscle anatomy and function, improving diagnosis of pelvic floor disorders and paving the way for new incontinence treatments.

Keywords:
Anal incontinenceExternal anal sphincterFecal continenceMorphologyPelvic floor

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Area of Science:

  • Anorectal physiology and imaging science.

Background:

  • The detailed anatomy of pelvic floor muscles, particularly the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscle, has been a subject of ongoing debate.
  • Traditional understanding has been limited by the available diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the unique myoarchitecture of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscle using advanced imaging.
  • To highlight novel tools for assessing the function of these critical pelvic floor muscles.
  • To discuss the implications for diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized advanced imaging modalities including three-dimensional transperineal ultrasound, MRI, and diffusion tensor imaging.
  • Employed high-resolution and high-definition anal manometry, alongside the functional luminal imaging probe for functional assessment.

Main Results:

  • Novel imaging has elucidated the distinct myoarchitecture of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscle.
  • New manometry tools provide enhanced functional assessment of these muscles.
  • Improved understanding of pelvic floor muscle structure and function aids in diagnosing pelvic floor disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Advanced imaging and functional assessment tools have significantly clarified pelvic floor muscle anatomy and function.
  • This enhanced understanding is crucial for accurate diagnosis of pelvic floor disorders.
  • Future therapeutic strategies for conditions like fecal incontinence are expected to benefit from these advancements.