Beyond Basics
The Normal Digestive Process in the Lower GI Tract
Anatomy
- The Colon
The colon, which begins at the ileocecal valve and terminates
at the anus, is divided into several sections: the cecum
(along with the appendix), ascending colon,
transverse colon, descending
colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and
anal canal (Fig. 5). The main functions of the colon are the absorption
of water and salts, and the concentration and storage of feces in the
rectum. Approximately two liters (about a half gallon) of liquids pass
from the ileum into the cecum and ascending colon each day. Absorption
in this area of the colon reduces that volume to about 200 milliliters
(about a half of a pint), meaning that 90% of the liquid entering the colon
is absorbed and returned to the body.
Figure 5 –
Radiograph of Colon
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
