Haustra

Haustra are small pouches in the colon caused by sacculation, which give the colon its segmented appearance. The term "haustra" is derived from the Latin word "haustus", which means "to draw up".

Anatomy

The colon is divided into several segments, including the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. The haustra are located along the entire length of the colon. They are formed by the taeniae coli, three bands of smooth muscle that make up the outer layer of the colon. The contraction of these muscles causes the colon to form pouches, known as haustra.

Function

The primary function of the haustra is to aid in the process of digestion. They help to slow down the passage of fecal matter through the colon, allowing water and electrolytes to be absorbed. This helps to form solid stool. The haustra also help to mix and move the fecal matter through the colon.

Clinical significance

Changes in the appearance or function of the haustra can be indicative of various gastrointestinal diseases. For example, a loss of haustral markings can be a sign of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. In contrast, increased haustral markings can be seen in conditions such as diverticulosis, where small pouches develop in the colon wall.

See also

• Colon (anatomy)
• Digestive system
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Ulcerative colitis
• Diverticulosis

References

Haustra Resources
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