defecatory

Defecatory is an adjective relating to defecation, the physiological process by which feces are eliminated from the digestive tract through the anus. In medical usage, it describes anatomical structures, reflexes, and disorders involved in defecation, such as defecatory muscles or defecatory reflexes. The term derives from the Latin defecare (to remove feces) with the suffix -ary or -ory indicating a relation.

Defecation is regulated by the enteric nervous system and autonomic pathways. The rectum fills, triggering the defecatory reflex: rectal smooth muscle contractions and relaxation of the internal anal sphincter; the external anal sphincter and pelvic floor muscles coordinate to allow voluntary toileting. The anorectal angle formed by the puborectalis muscle is adjusted during defecation.

Defecatory disorders include dyssynergic defecation, where the pelvic floor fails to relax or coordinates poorly, contributing to constipation; fecal incontinence due to sphincter defects; obstipation; rectal prolapse. Diagnosis often involves anorectal manometry, imaging, and defecography.

Clinical relevance: knowledge of defecatory physiology informs management of constipation and incontinence, including behavioral therapy, biofeedback, laxatives, or surgical interventions.