rektale

Rektale is an anatomical term that denotes anything related to the rectum, the distal part of the large intestine. In humans, the rectum measures about 12 to 15 centimeters and serves as a temporary reservoir for feces before defecation. It connects the sigmoid colon at the level of the third sacral vertebra to the anal canal.

Anatomically, the rectum is located in the pelvic cavity and is continuous with the anal canal. The rectal mucosa contains ridges known as folds and drains via superior, middle, and inferior rectal arteries. The rectum is supplied by autonomic nerves and is enveloped by pelvic floor muscles; the internal anal sphincter provides involuntary continence, while the external anal sphincter provides voluntary control. Venous drainage forms the rectal venous plexus, which communicates with both portal and systemic circulations. Lymphatic drainage goes to regional nodes.

Common conditions affecting the rectum include hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding, rectal prolapse, anal fissures, and rectal cancer. Symptoms can vary from painless bleeding to pain, tenesmus, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Risk factors include aging, constipation, diarrhea, and chronic straining. Most conditions are diagnosed via physical examination, endoscopy, or imaging.

Diagnostic methods include digital rectal examination, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies such as CT or MRI when cancer or structural disease is suspected. Treatments depend on the condition and may involve lifestyle changes such as a high-fiber diet and adequate hydration, topical or systemic medications, enema or rectal therapies, and surgical procedures such as hemorrhoidectomy, rectopexy, or bowel resection for cancer. Rectal disease is managed by specialists in gastroenterology and colorectal surgery.