Medical Encyclopedia

Medical Encyclopedia

Rectum

Rectum

The rectum is the final portion of the large intestine. It empties stool from the body through the anus.

Update Date: 7/17/2008

Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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