Anatomy of the small intestine

Bazira, Peter J.

Abstract

The small intestine, comprising the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum commences at the pyloroduodenal (gastroduodenal) junction and ends at the ileocaecal junction. The principal function of the small intestine is the digestion and absorption of ingested food, electrolytes, and vitamins. As might be expected from its very active role as a secretory and absorptive viscus, the small intestine has a rich blood supply and an extensive surface area of absorptive mucosa. The blood supply is derived chiefly from the superior mesenteric artery via its inferior pancreaticoduodenal, jejunal and ileal branches. Accompanying these arterial branches are corresponding venous tributaries that carry venous blood through the superior mesenteric vein to the portal vein and liver. This article describes the key surgically relevant anatomy of the small intestine.

Citation

Bazira, P. J. (2023). Anatomy of the small intestine. Surgery (Oxford), 41(7), 389-396. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mpsur.2023.02.031

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Jun 7, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Apr 8, 2023
• Publication Date: Jul 1, 2023
• Deposit Date: Oct 31, 2024
• Journal: Surgery (United Kingdom)
• Print ISSN: 0263-9319
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 41
• Issue: 7
• Pages: 389-396
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mpsur.2023.02.031
• Keywords: Duodenum; Ileum; Jejunum; Lymphatic drainage; Meckel's diverticulum; Mesentery; Superior mesenteric artery and vein
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4271259