Regularities of gastrointestinal sphincter structure and functions

The article provides a brief literature review of the definitions "sphincters of digestive system.” The authors discuss various morphological data of gastrointestinal sphincters in connection of structure, function and organization of their innervation. The article presents data of different authors about terminology, classifications and innervation of the sphincter apparatus of the gastro-intestinal tract. Particular attention is paid to the role of their own pacemaker interstitial cells of Cajal (the organizers of peristalsis).