anal sphincter
Definition
- Noun:
- The ring of muscle that controls the opening and closing of the anus: The anal sphincter is a circular muscle that contracts to close and relaxes to open the anal canal, allowing for the controlled release of feces.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- Damage to the anal sphincter can sometimes occur during childbirth.
- The surgeon repaired the patient's torn anal sphincter.
- Control of the anal sphincter is an important developmental milestone for toddlers.
Advanced Usage
- "Internal anal sphincter": Refers to the involuntary, smooth muscle portion of the sphincter.
- The internal anal sphincter is under autonomic nervous system control.
- "External anal sphincter": Refers to the voluntary, skeletal muscle portion that allows for conscious control.
- Physical therapy can help strengthen the external anal sphincter.
Variants and Related Words
- Sphincter ani (n): The formal Latin-derived term for the anal sphincter.
- Anus (n): The external opening at the end of the digestive tract, which is controlled by the anal sphincter.
Synonyms
- Anal muscle: A less specific, descriptive synonym.
- Rectal sphincter: A term sometimes used, though "anal sphincter" is more precise.
Related Phrases
- Sphincter control: The ability to voluntarily regulate the anal sphincter.
- The patient is working to regain sphincter control after the surgery.
- Sphincter injury: Damage to the anal sphincter muscle.
- A sphincter injury can lead to fecal incontinence.
Noun
-
the sphincter muscle of the anus
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