Int Neurourol J.  2012 Sep;16(3):102-106.

Clinical and Functional Anatomy of the Urethral Sphincter

• Jung J
• Ahn HK
• Huh Y

Abstract

Continence and micturition involve urethral closure. Especially, insufficient strength of the pelvic floor muscles including the urethral sphincter muscles causes urinary incontinence (UI). Thus, it is most important to understand the main mechanism causing UI and the relationship of UI with the urethral sphincter. Functionally and anatomically, the urethral sphincter is made up of the internal and the external sphincter. We highlight the basic and clinical anatomy of the internal and the external sphincter and their clinical meaning. Understanding these relationships may provide a novel view in identifying the main mechanism causing UI and surgical techniques for UI.

Keyword

Urethral sphincters; Pudendal nerve; Autonomic nervous system; Urinary incontinence; Urination

MeSH Terms

Autonomic Nervous System
Muscles
Pelvic Floor
Pudendal Nerve
Urethra
Urinary Incontinence
Urination