rektal

Rektal, often written rectal, is an adjective relating to the rectum, the final section of the large intestine. In humans the rectum begins at the distal end of the sigmoid colon and ends at the anal canal, roughly 12 to 15 centimeters long. It functions as a temporary reservoir for feces before defecation.

Anatomically, the rectum has mucosa, submucosa, and muscular layers, including the internal and external sphincters that regulate the passage of stool. It receives blood from the superior, middle, and inferior rectal arteries and is innervated by autonomic nerves and the inferior rectal nerves, enabling reflex defecation and continence control.

Rectal health issues are common and include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, proctitis (inflammation), rectal prolapse, and rectal cancer. Symptoms may include rectal bleeding, pain, itching, mucus discharge, or a sensation of incomplete evacuation. Routine screening for colorectal disease often involves rectal examination and endoscopic tests such as sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.

Clinical assessment may include a digital rectal examination (DRE), anoscopy, proctoscopy, or flexible sigmoidoscopy. Imaging such as MRI or endorectal ultrasound may be used for staging rectal cancer or assessing complex diseases.

Treatment depends on the condition and may include lifestyle changes, topical medications, suppositories or enemas, and surgical or endoscopic procedures. Common interventions include rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids, topical vasodilators for fissures, antibiotics or anti-inflammatories for proctitis, and oncologic therapy or rectal surgery for cancer. For persistent rectal symptoms, medical evaluation is recommended.