What part of the body does the lower digestive tract refer to?
I have been feeling unwell recently, and my doctor diagnosed me with an ulcer in the lower gastrointestinal tract. What specific area does the term "lower gastrointestinal tract" refer to?
Doctor's answer (1)
The lower digestive tract refers to the portion of the human digestive tract located below the duodenojejunal flexure (ligament of Treitz). It mainly includes the following parts:
1. Jejunum: This is the middle segment of the small intestine, responsible for the digestion and absorption of food.
2. Ileum: The final segment of the small intestine, primarily responsible for the absorption of water and electrolytes, preparing the food residue for entry into the large intestine.
3. Cecum: Located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, it is the beginning part of the large intestine and is connected to the appendix.
4. Appendix: A narrow, tube-like structure attached to the cecum. Its function is not entirely clear, but it can become inflamed in certain conditions, leading to appendicitis.
5. Colon: The main part of the large intestine, divided into the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon. It is primarily responsible for absorbing water, electrolytes, and some vitamins, as well as storing undigested food residue.
6. Rectum: Located within the pelvis, it is the final segment of the large intestine and serves as a temporary storage site for feces prior to defecation.
