Puborectalis - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The puborectalis is a muscle of the pelvic floor. It is part of the levator ani muscle group, and the most important for maintaining faecal continence. Attachments: Originates from the posterior surface of the pubis. It forms a U-shaped sling around the anal canal, and attaches to the pubis on the contralateral side. Actions: onic contraction bends the anal canal anteriorly. This creates the anorectal angle which contributes to faecal continence. It is voluntarily inhibited during defecation. Innervation: Nerve to levator ani and pudendal nerve. Blood supply: Inferior gluteal, inferior vesical and pudendal arteries. Adapted from work by OpenStax [CC BY 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 1Superior (bird’s eye) view of the pelvic floor. Note the prerectal fibres of the puborectalis. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Frequent questions What is the function of the puborectalis muscle? The puborectalis muscle is crucial for maintaining faecal continence by forming a U-shaped sling around the anal canal. Its tonic contraction helps create the anorectal angle, essential for proper bowel control. Where does the puborectalis muscle originate and attach? The puborectalis muscle originates from the posterior surface of the pubis and attaches to the pubis on the opposite side, encircling the anal canal in a U-shape. How is the puborectalis muscle innervated? The innervation of the puborectalis muscle comes from the nerve to levator ani and the pudendal nerve, which facilitate its motor function and voluntary control. What role does the puborectalis play during defecation? During defecation, the puborectalis muscle is voluntarily inhibited, allowing for the relaxation of the anal canal and facilitating the passage of stool. What is the blood supply to the puborectalis muscle? The puborectalis muscle receives its blood supply from the inferior gluteal, inferior vesical, and pudendal arteries, ensuring adequate oxygenation and nutrients for its function. Rate This Article