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Sacral reflexes
Physiology and clinical application

Eva-Maria Uher1, 2 and Michael Swash1   Contact Information

(1)  Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, E1 1BB London, United Kingdom
(2)  Present address: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, AKH Vienna, University Hospital, Währingergürtel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria

Abstract  Sacral reflexes consist of motor responses in the pelvic floor and sphincter muscles evoked by stimulation of sensory receptors in pelvic skin, anus, rectum, or pelvic viscera. These responses may be elicited by physical or electrical stimuli. They have been used in research studies of the pathophysiology of pelvic floor and anorectal disorders and many have been recommended for diagnostic use. These reflexes are described and discussed in this review. More rigorous evaluation of their value in the clinical assessment and care of patients with pelvic floor and sphincter disorders is required. Currently direct comparisons of the value of particular responses are generally not available, and few of these reflexes have proven validity for use in clinical diagnosis.

Key words  External anal sphincter - Anal reflexes - Fecal incontinence - Anorectal manometry - Constipation


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Referenced by
5 newer articles

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