Rectum

The rectum is the terminal section of the large intestine, connecting the sigmoid colon to the anal canal. It temporarily holds stool before defecation.

Defecation: The process of expelling feces from the digestive tract through the anus. Rectal filling and muscle coordination initiate and shape this process.
Large intestine: The final major portion of the digestive tract, extending from the cecum to the anus. The rectum is its terminal segment.
Digital rectal examination: A clinical examination in which a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to assess nearby structures. It can assess the rectal wall, sphincter tone, and accessible pelvic structures.
Colon: The part of the large intestine between the cecum and rectum. It precedes the rectum and primarily transports and processes intestinal contents.
Rectal ampulla: The expanded distal portion of the rectum that can accommodate stool before defecation. This enlargement provides much of the rectum’s temporary storage capacity.
Sigmoid colon: The S-shaped final segment of the colon that joins the rectum. It delivers colonic contents to the rectum.
Colonoscopy: An examination of the colon and rectum using a flexible camera-equipped instrument. The instrument passes through and allows direct inspection of the rectal lining.
Anus: The external opening at the end of the digestive tract through which feces leave the body. It is the outlet beyond the rectum, not a segment of the rectum itself.
Rectal compliance: The change in rectal volume that occurs as pressure rises during filling. Its properties influence how much stool the rectum can hold before urgency increases.
Anal canal: The short terminal passage of the digestive tract between the rectum and anus. It continues directly from the rectum and controls passage to the exterior.

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