The spelling of "sphincter vesicae" may seem intimidating, but it can be broken down phonetically as "sfɪŋktər vɛsɪki." The first sound is an "s" followed by "f" and "ɪ," creating the "sfɪ" sound. Then, "ŋktər" is pronounced with the "ŋk" as in "ink" and the "tər" as in "better." Finally, "vɛsɪki" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by the "s" and "ɪ" sounds, and the "k" as in "kit." With practice, even challenging medical terms can be easily spelled out using phonetic transcription.
Sphincter vesicae, also known as the urinary bladder sphincter or the bladder neck sphincter, refers to a circular muscle that surrounds the neck of the urinary bladder and functions to regulate the flow of urine from the bladder into the urethra.
The sphincter vesicae is situated at the base of the bladder, where the bladder connects to the urethra. It consists of smooth muscle fibers arranged in a circular pattern, forming a ring-like structure. This muscle is under voluntary control, meaning it can be consciously contracted or relaxed to allow or prevent the release of urine.
When the sphincter vesicae is contracted or tightened, it prevents the flow of urine from the bladder into the urethra. This is essential for maintaining continence, allowing individuals to control the timing and release of urine. Conversely, when the sphincter vesicae is relaxed or loosened, it opens up the passage between the bladder and urethra, enabling urine to flow out during the act of urination.
Disorders or dysfunction of the sphincter vesicae can lead to urinary incontinence or retention. In cases of urinary incontinence, the sphincter may be weakened or unable to effectively hold urine, causing involuntary leakage. On the other hand, urinary retention occurs when the sphincter fails to relax, impairing the ability to empty the bladder completely.
In summary, the sphincter vesicae is a crucial muscle responsible for controlling the release of urine from the bladder, ensuring normal urination and maintaining urinary continence.
Annulus urethralis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sphincter vesicae" is a combination of two Latin words: "sphincter" and "vesicae".
1. "Sphincter" comes from the Late Latin "sphincter", which means "a binder, a constrictor". This term was derived from the Greek word "sphínxter", meaning "a band, a cord".
2. "Vesicae" is the genitive case of the Latin word "vesica", which translates to "bladder". It originally stems from the Latin word "vesica" meaning "a blister, a swelling, a bladder".
When combined, "sphincter vesicae" translates to "bladder sphincter" in English. It refers to a ring-shaped muscle located at the opening of the bladder that controls the flow of urine.