Med-Surg Chp 44

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering essential terms related to the gastrointestinal system and its accessories.

Gastrointestinal System

A system responsible for the digestion and absorption of food, consisting of major organs like the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and accessory organs.

Upper GI Tract

The part of the gastrointestinal system that includes the mouth, esophagus, and stomach.

Lower GI Tract

The part of the gastrointestinal system that includes the intestines from the cecum to the anus.

Mastication

The process of chewing food, which begins the digestive process in the mouth.

Peristalsis

The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Chyme

The semiliquid food that is formed in the stomach and contains gastric juices and partially digested food.

Ileocecal valve

A valve that regulates the flow of contents from the small intestine to the large intestine.

Accessory Structures

Digestive organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas that assist in the digestion process.

Liver

The largest glandular organ in the body, responsible for various functions including detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.

Gallbladder

A small organ that stores bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine.

Pancreas

An organ that has both endocrine functions (producing hormones like insulin) and exocrine functions (producing digestive enzymes).

Peritoneum

A silk-like membrane that lines the inner abdomen and encloses the abdominal organs, secreting serous fluid.

Peritonitis

A serious inflammation of the peritoneum caused by perforation of the digestive tract.

Barium Swallow

A diagnostic test that uses barium contrast material to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract through X-ray.

Colonoscopy

A medical procedure where a flexible tube is used to examine the inside of the entire colon.