[Surgery of the perineum, anus and rectum]

The special and highly complicated anatomy of the continence organ is the basis for surgery in the perineal region and in the region of anus and rectum. The rectal cavernous body, the sphincter ani internus, which is aganglionic, as well as the asymmetry of the female external sphincter muscle, are new facts which must be given attention in respect of pathogenesis and therapy of many diseases occurring in this region. The article discusses piles, anorectal abscesses and fistulas, prolapse of the rectum and rectal cancer under these special aspects.