The word "Sphincter Ani" refers to the muscles that control the anus, and is spelled according to its Latin roots. The correct IPA phonetic transcription for this term is /ˈsfɪŋktər ˈeɪnaɪ/. The first part of the word, "sphincter," is pronounced with an "f" sound, even though it is spelled with "ph." The "ani" in "Sphincter Ani" is pronounced "ay-nigh," with the stress on the second syllable. Proper spelling and pronunciation of this term is important for medical professionals who study and treat conditions related to the anal area.
The term "Sphincter Ani" refers to a particular muscle located at the junction between the anus (the opening at the end of the digestive tract) and the rectum (the lower part of the large intestine). It is commonly known as the anal sphincter or the anal ring.
The Sphincter Ani muscle plays a crucial role in controlling the elimination of waste from the body by regulating the opening and closing of the anus. This involuntary muscle is responsible for maintaining continence, allowing individuals to voluntarily control the release of feces from the rectum.
There are two main components of the Sphincter Ani: the internal anal sphincter and the external anal sphincter. The internal sphincter is composed of smooth muscle fibers and is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. This muscle remains contracted at rest, providing a passive closure to the anus. The external sphincter, on the other hand, is composed of skeletal muscle fibers and is under voluntary control. Individuals can consciously contract and relax this muscle to aid in the control of defecation.
Disorders or dysfunction of the Sphincter Ani could result in conditions such as fecal incontinence or constipation. Medical treatments, exercises, or surgical interventions may be necessary to address any issues related to this muscle, depending on the severity of the condition.
See under musculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Sphincter Ani" is derived from Latin roots. Here is the breakdown:
1. Sphincter:
- The word "Sphincter" comes from the Greek "sphinkter", meaning "a binder" or "a knot".
- It entered English via Latin, where "sphincter" also referred to a "band" or "ring".
2. Ani:
- The word "Ani" refers to the anus, which is the external opening of the rectum.
- The term "Anus" comes from Latin and is derived from the Greek word "anoos".
So, when combined, "Sphincter Ani" refers to the ring-shaped muscle surrounding the anus that helps control the opening and closing of this bodily orifice.