TOPIC

Transsphincteric fistula

Term

The tract passes through the external anal sphincter toward the skin. The amount of muscle involved varies.

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Intersphincteric fistula

Term

Its tract runs in the space between the internal and external anal sphincters. This describes anatomy, not an operation.

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Horseshoe fistula

Term

A curved extension tracks around the anal canal and may reach both sides. It does not necessarily create two visible skin openings.

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Seton

Term

A thread or loop passes through a fistula and is tied outside. It may maintain drainage or serve another treatment purpose; its type matters.

TOPIC

Dyssynergic defecation

Term

Pushing and outlet muscle relaxation are poorly coordinated during evacuation. Blockage may persist despite soft stool. It does not mean all pelvic muscles are weak.

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Rectocele

Term

The front rectal wall bulges toward the vagina because support is weakened. It differs from rectal prolapse through the anus.

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Tenesmus

Term

A persistent or repeated urge to pass stool despite little output or after emptying. It is not synonymous with hard stool.

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Anal stenosis

Term

Narrowing of the anal canal, sometimes related to scarring. It differs from temporary muscle spasm and cannot be diagnosed from narrow stool alone.

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Fecal incontinence

Term

Stool escapes without adequate control, either with urgency or without awareness. Gas-control difficulty is also relevant but is not identical to every form of stool leakage.

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Proctalgia

Term

A term for pain patterns after appropriate evaluation for other causes. Attacks may be brief or longer and involve pelvic muscles. Functional does not mean imaginary.