Anatomy of the rectum and anal canal |
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Affiliation: | Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Memorial Medical Center, York, PA;Swedish Colon and Rectal Clinic, Swedish Medical Center, 1101 Madison, Seattle, WA 98410, USA;Stronach Regional Cancer Centre, Southlake Regional Health Centre, 596 Davis Drive, Newmarket, ON L3Y 2P9, Canada |
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Abstract: | Collectively the rectum and anal canal constitute the very terminal segment of the large intestine, and thus of the entire gastro-intestinal tract. Their distal location renders the rectum and anal canal readily accessible to direct inspection and examination. The prime function of the rectum is to act as a distensible reservoir for faeces, while the anal canal incorporates in its wall a powerful muscular sphincter which is of paramount importance in the mechanism of faecal continence. Diseases of the rectum and anal canal, both benign and malignant, account for a very large part of colorectal surgical practice worldwide. This article emphasizes the clinically and surgically-relevant aspects of the anatomy of the rectum and anal canal. |
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Keywords: | Anal cushions anal sphincters inferior hypogastric plexus lymphatic drainage mesorectum perineum rectal blood supply |
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