Rectum and anal canal

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The rectum and anal canal are located in the pelvic cavity and are the terminal structures of the gastrointestinal tract. The rectum is a direct continuation of the sigmoid colon and is followed by the anal canal, which opens itself to the external environment through the anus. The main functions of these structures is to absorb water and electrolytes, and store feces prior to defecation.

The rectum and anal canal lie posteriorly against the sacrum and coccyx, the anococcygeal ligament and the median sacral vessels. In males, the urinary bladder, distal parts of the ureters, ductus deferens, seminal glands, and prostate are found anterior to the rectum and anal canal, whereas in females the vagina occupies this position.

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