BUSAD 120 Lecture Notes - Lecture 30: External Anal Sphincter, Anal Sex, Anal Canal
Document Summary
Large intestine includes the cecum, the colon, the rectum, and the anal canal. Larger in diameter than the small intestine, but it is shorter in length. Vermiform appendix projection off of the cecum. Appendicitis inflamed appendix; can cause peritonitis, a life- The rectum opens at the anus, where defecation, the expulsion of feces, occurs. Does not absorb nutrients except certain vitamins. Absorbs water from feces to prevent dehydration. Absorbs vitamins produced by intestinal flora, the bacteria that inhabit the intestine. Bacteria break down indigestible material and produce b-complex vitamins and vitamin k. Bacteria and dietary fiber (indigestible remains) make up the solid wastes. Bacteria digesting the indigestible materials causes the odor of feces and accounts for the gas. Stercobilin, a breakdown product of bilirubin, and oxidized iron cause the brown color of feces. Defecation ridding the body of feces. Stretching of the rectal wall initiates nerve impulses to the spinal cord.
