What is the medical term for a band of muscle that encircles an opening; when it contracts, the opening squeezes closed?
A)Meatus
B)Reflex
C)Ketone
D)Sphincter
E)Flank

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sphincter is a band of muscle that encircles an opening and can contract to close the opening. Examples include the lower esophageal sphincter, which controls the flow of food into the stomach, and the anal sphincter, which controls the release of feces. Meatus refers to a passage or canal in the body, while reflex refers to an involuntary response to a stimulus. Ketone refers to a class of organic compounds produced by the liver during the breakdown of fat. Flank refers to the side of the body between the ribs and the hip.

What Is the Medical Term for a Band of Muscle