Puborectalis muscle
Encyclopedia
The fibers which form a sling
for the rectum
are named the Puborectalis or Sphincter recti.
They arise from the lower part of the pubic symphysis
, and from the superior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm
.
They meet with the corresponding fibers of the opposite side around the lower part of the rectum, and form for it a strong sling. Relaxation reduces the angle between rectum and anus, allowing defecation in conjunction with relaxation of the internal and external sphincters.
Puborectalis is part of the levator ani
group of muscles.
Sling
The word sling may refer to:* Sling , a device used to hurl projectiles* Sling is an item of climbing equipment consisting of a sewn loop of webbing that can be wrapped around sections of rock or tied to other pieces of equipment.* Sling * Ski jumping sling is an item of sports training...
for the rectum
Rectum
The rectum is the final straight portion of the large intestine in some mammals, and the gut in others, terminating in the anus. The human rectum is about 12 cm long...
are named the Puborectalis or Sphincter recti.
They arise from the lower part of the pubic symphysis
Pubic symphysis
The pubic symphysis or symphysis pubis is the midline cartilaginous joint uniting the superior rami of the left and right pubic bones. It is located anterior to the urinary bladder and superior to the external genitalia; for females it is above the vulva and for males it is above the penis...
, and from the superior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm
Superior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm
The superior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm is continuous with the obturator fascia and stretches across the pubic arch.If the obturator fascia be traced medially after leaving the Obturator internus muscle, it will be found attached by some of its deeper or anterior fibers to the inner margin...
.
They meet with the corresponding fibers of the opposite side around the lower part of the rectum, and form for it a strong sling. Relaxation reduces the angle between rectum and anus, allowing defecation in conjunction with relaxation of the internal and external sphincters.
Puborectalis is part of the levator ani
Levator ani
The levator ani is a broad, thin muscle, situated on the side of the pelvis.It is attached to the inner surface of the side of the lesser pelvis, and unites with its fellow of the opposite side to form the greater part of the floor of the pelvic cavity....
group of muscles.