Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors.
Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker.
Rectoanal inhibitory reflex
The rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR), also known as the anal sampling mechanism, anal sampling reflex, rectosphincteric reflex, or anorectal sampling reflex, is a reflex characterized by a transient involuntary relaxation of the internal anal sphincter in response to distention of the rectum.[1] The RAIR provides the upper anal canal with the ability to discriminate between flatus and fecal material.
The ability of the rectum to discriminate between gaseous, liquid and solid contents is essential to the ability to voluntarily control defecation. The RAIR allows for voluntary flatulation to occur without also eliminating solid waste, irrespective of the presence of fecal material in the anal canal.[2]
- ^ Zbar AP, Aslam M, Gold DM, Gatzen C, Gosling A, Kmiot WA (February 1998). "Parameters of the rectoanal inhibitory reflex in patients with idiopathic fecal incontinence and chronic constipation". Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 41 (2): 200–8. doi:10.1007/bf02238249. PMID 9556245. S2CID 9535999.
- ^ Barrett KE (2014). "Intestinal Motility". Gastrointestinal Physiology (2nd ed.). New York: Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill. p. 180. ISBN 978-0071774017.
Previous Page Next Page
