Radiologic Technologist Practice Exam

Defecography is primarily used to measure and study which anatomical aspect?

1. Length of the transverse colon

2. Angles of the right and left colic flexures

3. Anorectal angle

4. Length of the sigmoid colon

The correct answer is: Anorectal angle

Defecography is a specialized imaging technique used to evaluate the function and anatomy of the rectum and anal canal during defecation. One of its primary focuses is the measurement and assessment of the anorectal angle, which is crucial in understanding normal and abnormal bowel function, particularly in cases of constipation or fecal incontinence. The anorectal angle is formed between the rectum and the anal canal and plays a significant role in maintaining continence and allowing for the passage of stool. Abnormalities in this angle may indicate dysfunction in anorectal coordination or other underlying conditions that can affect bowel movement. While the length of the transverse colon, angles of the right and left colic flexures, and length of the sigmoid colon are important considerations in gastrointestinal anatomy, they do not directly pertain to the functional assessment that defecography aims to achieve. The central purpose of defecography focuses on the dynamic processes involved during defecation, making the anorectal angle the most relevant aspect measured in this context.