SIGMOID COLON Meaning and
Definition
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The sigmoid colon is a part of the large intestine that is located in the lower abdomen. It comprises the final section of the colon, connecting the descending colon to the rectum. The term "sigmoid" refers to its S-shaped appearance, resembling the Greek letter sigma (Σ).
The sigmoid colon plays a crucial role in the process of digestion and elimination. It functions primarily to store and transport fecal matter. When food passes through the colon, water and electrolytes are absorbed, and the waste material begins to solidify. The sigmoid colon collects this waste material, consolidates it into fecal matter, and then propels it into the rectum for eventual elimination from the body.
The sigmoid colon is known for its high degree of flexibility and ability to stretch. This flexibility allows it to accommodate varying volumes of waste material and prevents the build-up of pressure in the colon. The wall of the sigmoid colon is composed of smooth muscle that contracts and relaxes to create peristaltic waves, facilitating the movement of fecal matter towards the rectum.
Due to its location and function, the sigmoid colon is susceptible to certain medical conditions. These can include diverticulitis (inflammation or infection of small pouches that form in the colon) and sigmoid volvulus (twisting of the sigmoid colon upon itself, causing a complete or partial blockage).
In summary, the sigmoid colon is the final section of the large intestine that stores and transports fecal matter, facilitating the absorption of water and electrolytes. It helps regulate bowel movements and is known for its flexibility and crucial role in the digestive process.
Common Misspellings for SIGMOID COLON
- aigmoid colon
- zigmoid colon
- xigmoid colon
- digmoid colon
- eigmoid colon
- wigmoid colon
- sugmoid colon
- sjgmoid colon
- skgmoid colon
- sogmoid colon
- s9gmoid colon
- s8gmoid colon
- sifmoid colon
- sivmoid colon
- sibmoid colon
- sihmoid colon
- siymoid colon
- sitmoid colon
- signoid colon
Etymology of SIGMOID COLON
The word "sigmoid" is derived from the Greek word "sigma", which represents the Greek letter "Σ" that resembles the letter "S" in English. The term "sigmoid colon" is used to describe a section of the large intestine, specifically the lower part that connects the descending colon to the rectum. The name "sigmoid" comes from the S-shaped curve that this portion of the colon resembles.
Similar spelling words for SIGMOID COLON
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