Large intestine

A critical component of the digestive system that absorbs water, electrolytes, and processes waste material.

The large intestine, also known as the bowel, is a muscular tube approximately 1.5 meters long. It connects the small intestine to the rectum and is divided into several sections: the cecum, colon (ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid), rectum, and anal canal. Its primary role is to absorb water and salts from undigested food, turning it into waste.

Terminologia Anatomica

intestinum-cripum

System

Digestive system

Function

The main function of the large intestine is to complete the digestion process by absorbing water and essential electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter. As food passes through the cecum into the colon, the material is gradually dehydrated and transformed into stool. Additionally, the large intestine plays a pivotal role in the fermentation of certain undigested carbohydrates through the action of gut bacteria, producing gases and short-chain fatty acids, which are beneficial for the body's energy economy. The movement of contents through the large intestine, known as peristalsis, helps in the elimination of waste materials. This organ is also critical in maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance as it recycles vital substances back into the bloodstream.

Location

The large intestine is located in the lower abdomen, extending from the end of the small intestine (specifically the ileum) to the rectum. The first segment, the cecum, is situated in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, where it meets the appendix. The colon, which makes up the bulk of the large intestine, orients itself in a distinctive shape as it ascends on the right side (ascending colon), moves across the abdomen (transverse colon), descends on the left side (descending colon), and curves into the sigmoid colon, leading to the rectum. The rectum then extends into the anal canal, terminating at the anus.

Did You Know?

The large intestine houses trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiota, which aid in digestion and play a significant role in overall health.
The length of the large intestine in an adult can vary significantly, from 1.2 to 2.0 meters.
The large intestine does not produce digestive enzymes; instead, it relies on bacteria to break down remaining nutrients.
In addition to absorption, the large intestine produces certain vitamins like vitamin K and some B vitamins through the action of its microbial inhabitants.