	community	directory	books	authors	images	encyclopedia

Email:
Password:
Register

Knowledgerush Search

Search for images of Small intestine

Message boards Post comment

Small intestine

In biology the small intestine is the part of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and the large intestine. In adult humans it is about 7m long. It is divided into three structural parts: duodenum, jejunum and ileum. Food from the stomach is allowed in to the duodenum by a muscle called the pylorus, or pyloric sphincter, and is then pushed through the small intestine by a process of muscular contractions called peristalsis.

The small intestine is the site where most of the nutrients from ingesteed food is absorbed. There are microscopic finger-like projections called villi covering the small intestinal walls which increase surface area for absorption.

stomach colon rectum diagram.gif

Small intestine disorders (see also gastroenterology):

small intestine obstruction ("high" mechanic ileus)
- volvulus
- obstruction from external pressure
- obstruction by masses in the lumen (foreign bodies, bezoar, gallstones)
paralytic ileus
Crohn's disease
celiac disease
carcinoid
Meckel's Diverticulum
dumping syndrome
infectious diseases
- giardiasis
- ascaridosis
ischeamic injury

Compose Your Message

Small intestine Anonymous - November 25th, 2005
What are the enzymes in the small intestine? read more » messages 1

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Small intestine".