[Hormonal and pharmacological modification of the ileocecal sphincter]

Ileocecal shincter (ICS) pressure was evaluated in response to hormonal and pharmacological stimuli in rabbits. The effect of exogeneous gastrin (pentagastrin) and glucagon, metoclopramide and neostigmin on the ICS pressure was studied. Gastrin, glucagon and metoclopramide increased the pressure whereas neostigmin lowered it. These results suggest that this junctional zone is not only a valve but a real shincter, which is affected by gastrointestinal hormones and pharmacological substances. Further examinations are necessary to study the role of the ICS after gastrointestinal surgery.