Large Intestine Anatomy

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and physiology of the large intestine and associated structures.

Large Intestine

Extends from the distal end of the ileum to the anus, approximately 1.5 m in adults, functions to absorb fluids and salts.

Cecum

The first part of the large intestine, attached to the appendix and absorbs fluids from gut contents.

Appendix

A narrow, hollow, blunt tube with aggregations of lymphoid tissue, attached to the cecum.

Appendicitis

Infection and inflammation of the appendix due to obstruction, often resulting in pain, fever, and requires appendectomy.

McBurney’s Point

A point on the abdomen located one-third the distance from the anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus, often associated with appendicitis.

Blood Supply to Appendix

Supplied by branches of the ileocolic artery from the superior mesenteric artery.

Ascending Colon

The part of the colon that extends from the right groin to the right hypochondrium.

Transverse Colon

The part of the colon that extends from the right hypochondrium to the left hypochondrium.

Descending Colon

The part of the colon that extends from the left hypochondrium to the left groin.

Sigmoid Colon

The final segment of the colon, beginning above the pelvic inlet and entering the upper part of the pelvic cavity.

Colon Blood Supply

Supplied by various arteries including the right colic and left colic arteries, as well as the sigmoidal arteries from the IMA.

Rectum

A retroperitoneal structure that starts at the end of the sigmoid mesocolon.

Superior Rectal Artery

The blood supply for the rectum, branching from the inferior mesenteric artery.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids that receive blood supply from the superior rectal artery.

External Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids that receive blood supply from the middle and inferior rectal arteries.