Medical Dictionary
Main Entry:
anal sphincter Function:
noun : either of two sphincters controlling the closing of the anus:
a : an outer sphincter of striated muscleextending from the coccyx to the central tendinous part of the perineum and surrounding the anus immediately beneath the skin called also
external anal sphincter, sphincter ani externus b : an inner sphincter formed by thickening of the circular smooth muscle of the rectum called also
internal anal sphincter, sphincter ani internus
