title: The effects of local X-irradiation on the distensibility of the rectum in rats.
abstract: Proctometry was performed on female Wistar rats following irradiation of the rectum with single doses of 15, 18 and 22 Gy of X-rays. The results indicated a progressive increase in distensibility until week 29 after irradiation which was attributed to degenerative changes in the intestinal wall. A major factor which determines colorectal pressure is the neuromuscular activity, however, neuromuscular transmission was not affected by irradiation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiation Biology, St Bartholomew's Hospital Medical College, London, UK.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tamou
authors.forename: K R
authors.initials: KR
authors.lastname: Trott
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003187:Compliance / Q000528:radiation effects; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D005260:Female; D007413:Intestinal Mucosa / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects; D008365:Manometry / Q000379:methods; D010528:Peristalsis / Q000528:radiation effects; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011833:Radiation Injuries, Experimental / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D012007:Rectum / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000528:radiation effects*