Rectum
The colon makes an S-shaped bend. This section is called the sigmoid colon. It is the last link between the colon and the rectum.
The rectum is also called rectum. It is mainly a reservoir and stores processed bowel movements intended for excretion. The rectum begins approximately at the level of the sacrum.
The rectum has a length of about 15-20 cm. It ends in the anus, which is formed not only by the perineal muscles but also by sphincters. These sphincters hold back the bowel movement and thus ensure sufficient continence.
The inner side of the rectum is pervaded by a venous plexus. If this vascular system sags, the known hemorrhoids occur. Especially in the case of solid bowel movements or increased pressure during defecation, such hemorrhoids can develop.
There are some stages of hemorrhoids. Tightly filled vessels always present a risk of injury. If this happens, one speaks of hemorrhoid bleeding, which can be not insignificant.
Sacerations of the venous plexus can be treated with numerous ointments or an operation can be performed. In the case of intestinal diseases that require surgical removal of sections of the intestine, it is important that a large part of the rectum is preserved. Otherwise there is a great danger of incontinence.
If patients have blood deposits in their stools or so-called tarry stools, the intestine should always be examined by a colonoscopy. A so-called digital-rectal examination should always be performed if blood is detected in the stool. Here the rectal wall can be palpated, constrictions can be found and it can also be checked whether the ampoule of the rectum is filled with stool, and whether it is blood-free or whether there is blood admixture.
In the case of a pronounced infestation, the digital-rectal examination can already lead to the suspicion of a rectal carcinoma, which can become noticeable by a pronounced constriction. In addition to the digital-rectal examination, however, a rectoscopy should always be performed if suspected. This is a colonoscopy in which only the rectum is seen.
This procedure requires much less effort and preparation than a “large” colonoscopy. In most cases, the patient is given only a laxative suppository shortly before the procedure to empty the rectum and thus allow a proper view. A rigid instrument is then inserted into the anus and the rectum is inspected while advancing.
