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Digestive Diseases and Sciences
Published in: Digestive Diseases and Sciences 6/2012

01-06-2012 | Review

The Physiology of Human Defecation

Authors: Somnath Palit, Peter J. Lunniss, S. Mark Scott

Published in: Digestive Diseases and Sciences | Issue 6/2012

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Abstract

Human defecation involves integrated and coordinated sensorimotor functions, orchestrated by central, spinal, peripheral (somatic and visceral), and enteric neural activities, acting on a morphologically intact gastrointestinal tract (including the final common path, the pelvic floor, and anal sphincters). The multiple factors that ultimately result in defecation are best appreciated by describing four temporally and physiologically fairly distinct phases. This article details our current understanding of normal defecation, including recent advances, but importantly identifies those areas where knowledge or consensus is still lacking. Appreciation of normal physiology is central to directed treatment of constipation and also of fecal incontinence, which are prevalent in the general population and cause significant morbidity.
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Metadata
Title
The Physiology of Human Defecation
Authors
Somnath Palit
Peter J. Lunniss
S. Mark Scott
Publication date
01-06-2012
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Digestive Diseases and Sciences / Issue 6/2012
Print ISSN: 0163-2116
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2568
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-012-2071-1

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