The physiology of continence and evacuation

Continence is maintained by the coordinated function of the pelvic floor, rectum and anal sphincters. Evacuation occurs through a relaxed pelvic floor. The rectum acts to either store or expel stool both of which require cortical sensory awareness acting in conjunction with intramural and spinal reflexes that ensure timely defecation. The anal sphincters act individually and in unison in response to rectal distension and the sensation of rectal filling. Reflex relaxation of the internal anal sphincter has an additional sensory function in allowing sampling of rectal contents in the upper anal canal. Voluntary control of the external anal sphincter is key in the voluntary deferring of evacuation until a socially opportune moment. This review describes the physiological roles of each of these continence organs in order to understand the complex process of defecation.