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Rectum

Rectum

Overview

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

Review Date 5/29/2024

Updated by: Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery Practice Specializing in Breast Cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.