Anorectal Physiology and Pathophysiology in the Elderly

Siegfried W.B. Yu, Satish S.C. Rao

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

55 Scopus citations

Abstract

Anorectal medical disorders facing the elderly include fecal incontinence, fecal impaction with overflow fecal incontinence, chronic constipation, dyssynergic defecation, hemorrhoids, anal fissure, and pelvic floor disorders. This article discusses the latest advances in age-related changes in morphology and function of anal sphincter, changes in cellular and molecular biology, alterations in neurotransmitters and reflexes, and their impact on functional changes of the anorectum in the elderly. These biophysiologic changes have implications for the pathophysiology of anorectal disorders. A clear understanding and working knowledge of the functional anatomy and pathophysiology will enable appropriate diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)95-106
Number of pages12
JournalClinics in Geriatric Medicine
Volume30
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2014

Keywords

  • Age-related cellular dysfunction
  • Anorectal pathophysiology
  • Constipation
  • Elderly
  • Fecal incontinence

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

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