rectum, gastrointestinal tract, gastrointestinal system, colon, large bowel, art, anatomy, art in anatomy, Ashley Davidoff MD

The Rectum and Anus-Back End of the Colon in Green

This AiA rendering is from a barium enema which uses X-ray  technology. The shape of the rectum is defined by 3 crescentic folds. The superior fold marks the border between the first inlet part of the rectum above and the ampulla below. The inlet portion is narrow, widening at the ampulla and then narrowing again at the anorectal junction. The outlet portion contains the rectal columns and the pectinate line which is the anorectal junction.

Description

This AiA rendering is from a barium enema which uses X-ray  technology. The shape of the rectum is defined by 3 crescentic folds. The superior fold marks the border between the first inlet part of the rectum above and the ampulla below. The inlet portion is narrow, widening at the ampulla and then narrowing again at the anorectal junction. The outlet portion contains the rectal columns and the pectinate line which is the anorectal junction.

Physiologically the capacious receptacle allows for the storage of content until the time is opportune to evacuate which is controlled by a sphinteric (valve) mechanism.  The rectum has an unusual sensory ability to distinguish between gaseous and solid content

Artistically the voluptuous shape with the crescentic folds has semblances of early stone art.  The color green has a calming effect.