Anatomy and Physiology Review

The Aorta and Mesenteric Arteries

• The Aorta: Main artery in the human body that carries blood away from the heart.
• Mesenteric Arteries: Arteries supplying blood to the intestinal tract. Distinguished as:
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery: Located on the upper right side of the abdomen. Supplies blood to the small intestines and part of the large intestines.
  • Inferior Mesenteric Artery: Supplies blood to the lower part of the large intestine.

Enzyme Lab and Biological Reactions

• Catalase Lab:
  • The enzyme catalase reacts with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to produce oxygen (O2) with visible bubbles.
  • Factors affecting enzyme activity:
  • Temperature: Higher temperatures may increase reaction rate until enzymes denature.
  • pH Levels: Different pH levels can affect enzyme shape and function.

Digestive System Anatomy

• Regions of the Bowel:
  • Cecum: Beginning of the large intestine.
  • Ileocecal Valve (IC valve): Junction between the small intestine (ileum) and the cecum of the large intestine.
  • Labeling in anatomy:
  • Hepatic Flexure: Located near the liver; connects the ascending colons to transverse colon.
  • Splenic Flexure: Located near the spleen; connects the transverse colon to the descending colon.

Colonoscopy Considerations

• Understanding the anatomy of the large intestine is crucial for procedures like colonoscopies. Knowledge about the two flexures prevents any procedural risks related to bowel perforation.

Important Sphincters

• Sphincters regulate movement within the digestive system:
  • Cardiac Sphincter: At the top of the stomach.
  • Pyloric Sphincter: At the exit of the stomach to the duodenum.
  • Ileocecal Valve: Between the ileum and cecum.

Large and Small Intestines Overview

• Ascending Colon: Goes upward from the cecum.
• Transverse Colon: Crosses the body.
• Descending Colon: Moves downward before the rectum.
• Sigmoid Colon: S-shaped section of the large intestine leading to the rectum.

Appendix Location

• Appendix: Typically located on the cecum, its position can vary due to congenital anomalies.
  • It’s critical for medical professionals to know the appendix’s typical and atypical locations for appendicitis diagnoses.

Airway Anatomy - Epiglottis and Trachea

• Epiglottis: A flap that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the air passage.
• Trachea: The windpipe that directs air to and from the lungs.

Salivary Glands

• Major Salivary Glands:
  • Parotid Gland: The largest, secreting salivary amylase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates.
  • Sublingual Gland: Located beneath the tongue; involved in saliva production.
  • Submandibular Gland: Located below the mandible; also contributes to saliva.

Enzymatic Action in Digestion

• Salivary Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates in the saliva.
• Lingual Lipase: Digestive enzyme that works on lipids; is active in the stomach.

Laboratory Expectations and Practice

• Students may encounter anatomy labeling in lab practicals, such as identifying parts of the digestive system using diagrams and pictures. Preparing for visuals is essential for performance.