Large intestine
(Redirected from Large bowel)
The colon, commonly referred to as the large intestine, is a vital component of the human digestive system, responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from undigested food and forming feces. It is the final section of the digestive tract and plays a crucial role in eliminating waste from the body.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The colon is a tubular structure that starts at the cecum (where it connects with the small intestine) and ends at the rectum. It can be divided into several sections:
- Ascending Colon: Begins at the cecum and extends upwards to the right side of the abdomen.
- Transverse Colon: The longest portion, it runs horizontally across the abdomen.
- Descending Colon: Travels down the left side of the abdomen.
- Sigmoid Colon: An S-shaped curve that connects the descending colon to the rectum.
Function[edit | edit source]
- Absorption: The primary function of the colon is to absorb water, electrolytes, and some vitamins produced by enteric bacteria.
- Feces Formation: It converts the semi-liquid chyme from the small intestine into solid feces by absorbing excess water.
- Storage and Elimination: The colon stores fecal matter until it is eliminated from the body through the rectum and anus.
Microbiota[edit | edit source]
The colon is home to a vast number of bacteria, collectively termed the gut microbiota. These bacteria aid in the digestion of food, production of essential vitamins, and play a role in the immune system. A balanced gut microbiota is crucial for optimal colon health.
Diseases and Disorders[edit | edit source]
The colon can be affected by a variety of diseases and disorders:
- Colorectal Cancer: A malignant growth that arises from the inner lining of the colon.
- Diverticulitis: Inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the colon's walls.
- Ulcerative Colitis: An inflammatory bowel disease causing ulcers in the inner lining of the colon.
- Crohn's Disease: A type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A functional disorder causing abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Medical Procedures[edit | edit source]
Several medical procedures target the colon:
- Colonoscopy: A diagnostic procedure using a flexible camera to examine the entire colon.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy but only examines the sigmoid colon.
- Colostomy: A surgical procedure to create an opening (stoma) between the colon and the surface of the abdomen for the removal of feces.
Summary[edit | edit source]
The colon, or large intestine, is an essential part of the human digestive system, playing a critical role in water and electrolyte absorption and waste elimination. Understanding its structure, function, and associated diseases is vital for maintaining digestive health and overall well-being.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD