Digestive System: Alimentary Canal

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the anatomy and procedures of the digestive system, specifically focusing on the alimentary canal, esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.

Alimentary Canal

The musculomembranous tube that extends from the mouth to the anus.

Esophagus

A long muscular tube providing a path for food and saliva from the laryngopharynx to the stomach.

Stomach

A dilated, saclike portion of the digestive tract located between the esophagus and small intestine.

Chyme

Chemically and mechanically altered food that leaves the stomach.

Peristalsis

Contraction waves by which the digestive tube propels contents toward the rectum.

Contrast media

Substances used in radiographic imaging to enhance the visibility of internal structures.

Barium sulfate

The most common contrast for the alimentary canal in radiographic studies.

Cardiac sphincter

The muscle controlling the opening between the esophagus and the stomach.

Pyloric sphincter

The muscle controlling the opening between the stomach and small intestine.

Duodenum

The first portion of the small intestine, connecting to the pyloric sphincter.

Haustra

Pouches along the large intestine formed by the taeniae coli.

Fibrous capsular ligaments

Support structures important for maintaining the positioning of the duodenum.

Hypersthenic

Body habitus classification where the stomach position is higher and more horizontal.

Asthenic

Body habitus classification indicating a lower and more midline stomach position.

Sphincter

Muscular structures that control the passage of substances in the digestive system.

Sthenic

Body habitus representing the average body structure, with typical stomach positioning.

Hyposthenic

Body habitus classification situated between sthenic and asthenic.