Anococcygeal body

Anatomical structure in the human body

Anococcygeal body

The anococcygeal body is a small, fibrous structure located in the human pelvis. It is part of the pelvic floor and plays a role in supporting the pelvic organs. The anococcygeal body is situated between the anus and the coccyx, the latter being the terminal segment of the vertebral column.

Illustration of the anococcygeal body (labeled as "Anococcygeal ligament") in relation to surrounding structures.

Anatomy

The anococcygeal body is composed of fibrous connective tissue and is sometimes referred to as the "anococcygeal ligament." It extends from the posterior aspect of the anal canal to the tip of the coccyx. This structure is part of the levator ani muscle group, which is crucial for maintaining continence and supporting the pelvic organs.

Function

The primary function of the anococcygeal body is to provide support to the pelvic floor. It acts as a midline structure that helps maintain the position of the rectum and the anal canal. Additionally, it serves as an attachment point for the fibers of the levator ani muscles, which are involved in the voluntary control of defecation and the support of the pelvic viscera.

Clinical significance

The anococcygeal body can be involved in certain medical conditions, such as pelvic floor dysfunction and coccygodynia (pain in the coccyx area). Understanding its anatomy and function is important for healthcare professionals dealing with disorders of the pelvic floor.

Related pages

• Pelvic floor
• Levator ani
• Coccyx
• Anal canal