What is the anus?
It is called the anus. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as the external opening of the digestive tract.
What it is
- The external opening of the digestive tract.
- Surrounded by two muscular sphincters — an internal (smooth muscle) and an external (voluntary).
- Controls the release of feces.
Where it is
- At the lower end of the anal canal.
- Between the buttocks.
- The perianal skin is richly supplied with sensory nerves.
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Last verified: 2026-07-18
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