[The small and large intestine. Fecal incontinence].

Except for impaired resorption of vitamin D and calcium, the small bowel does not exhibit significant functional impairment during aging. Vascular problems in the small and large bowel are rare, but are of dramatic importance. Chronic constipation and diverticulosis are classical disorders of aging which should be treated by adding fiber to the normal diet. Surgery is only indicated in the case of complicated diverticulitis. Adenoma and colorectal carcinoma show an age-related incidence. Angiodysplasia, preferentially localized in the caecum, is the major cause of lower gastrointestinal tract hemorrhage. Anal incontinence may be multifactorial, behavior modification and biofeedback may help to avoid surgery.