The last part of the digestive system is made up of the anus (rectum) with the anus (anus). These structures are located in the pelvis or rectum is about 12-16 cm long and 4 cm wide and is equipped with a sphincter – the internal sphincter will not be influenced by the smooth muscle, the outer is created by skeletal muscles, and it is possible it will affect. In the closed ampoule rectal sphincter collects stool that is removed from the body by a process called defecation. Growing filling the rectal walls expand and stretch receptors (nerve endings) in the wall of the rectum help relax smooth-muscle-internal anal sphincter, which is not susceptible to clearance.Simultaneously, it is ensured contraction of the external anal sphincter will capable of being influenced, which is innervated by the sacral (cross) plexus.

These processes are called triggers. Myenteric reflex, which makes the signal goes to the sigmoid colon (sigmoid) and will generate strong peristaltic waves and shifting the content further into the lower intestine and rectum. The first step, as is apparent from the written, necessary for a successful defecation is releasing the internal sphincter, without having to stop the process. During the actual process of defecation also participate chest muscles, diaphragm, abdominal muscles press and pelvic muscles.

In relation to defecation are two very common types of disorders – constipation, decreased frequency of defecation, and on the other hand incontinence (failing gases and stool).

Already in the higher parts of the digestive system referred to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may affect the rectum and anus.

Another very common disease affecting the rectum and anus are hemorrhoids – internal and external. Except then neither small and larger anal fissures, which are very painful. Among other pathologies include abscesses, fistulas and rectal polyps. We do not forget the possible prolapse rectal prolapse, in which the lining of the rectum protrudes from the anus.

Most severely they are then cancerous changes rectum. Fortunately, they are easy to diagnose in the lower stages, and thus the possibility of full recovery is higher.