Rectum And Anal Canal Flashcards
What is the function of the rectum?
Temporary storage of faeces prior to defaecation
Doesnt contain faeces unless need the toilet
How is the structure of the longitudinal muscle on the outside of the rectum different to the rest of the colon?
Has continous band of outer longitudinal muscles
Which is different to the Taenia coli of the rest of the colon
How is the peritoneum related to the rectum?
Parts are extra peritoneal and others are Intra peritoneal
What stimulates the urge to defecate?
The stretching of rectum by faeces
What are the 3 arteries that supply blood to the rectum?
Superior rectal artery
Middle rectal artery
Inferior rectal artery
What blood vessel/artery does the superior rectal artery come from?
Is a continuation of the inferior mesenteric artery
What blood vessel/artery does the middle rectal artery come from?
Its a branch from the internal iliac artery
What blood vessel/artery does the inferior rectal artery come from?
Its a branch from the pudendal artery
What are the 2 types of venous drainage to the rectum and anal canal?
Portal drainage
Systemic drainage
What vein acts as portal drainage for the upper part of the rectum?
Superior rectal vein
What vein acts as systemic drainage for the distal part of the rectum/anus?
Internal iliac vein
How can peri-anal Varices develop?
There are Porto-systemic anastomosis between the superior rectal vein of the portal drainage and the internal iliac vein of the systemic drainage
Portal hypertension can lead to the veins draining the anasotomoses distending leading to Varices formation
What vein drains the hindgut into the portal system?
Inferior mesenteric vein
Where is the anorectal junction/start of the anal canal?
Proximal border of the anal sphincter complex
What muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining fecal continence?
How does it do this?
Puborectalis sling (part of puborectalis muscle)
It angles the anal canal posteriorly (when it points anteriorly faeces can pass through more easily)
What factors of the anal canal are needed for good continence?
Distensible rectum (can stretch)
Firm bulky faeces
Normal anorectal angle
Anal cushions
Normal anal sphincters
What are anal/haemorhoidal cushions?
Network of venous blood vessels smooth muscle and cartilage that aid continence
What are the 2 sections of the anal sphincter complex?
Internal involuntary sphincter
External voluntary anal sphincter
What type of muscle is the internal involuntary sphincter of the anal sphincter complex?
Circular smooth muscle
What type of control is the internal involuntary sphincter under?
Autonomics