SACRAL REFLEXES - PHYSIOLOGY AND CLINICAL-APPLICATION

Sacral reflexes consist of motor responses in the pelvic floor and sph incter muscles evoked by stimulation of sensory receptors in pelvic sk in, anus, rectum, or pelvic viscera. These responses may be elicited b y physical or electrical stimuli. They have been used in research stud ies of the pathophysiology of pelvic floor and anorectal disorders and many have been recommended for diagnostic use. These reflexes are des cribed and discussed in this review. More rigorous evaluation of their value in the clinical assessment and care of patients with pelvic flo or and sphincter disorders is required. Currently direct comparisons o f the value of particular responses are generally not available, and f em of these reflexes have proven validity for use in clinical diagnosi s.