cecum
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A pouch-like cavity forming the beginning of the large intestine: The cecum is the first part of the large intestine, located in the lower right abdomen, where the small intestine (ileum) connects. It is a blind-ended sac. 2. The anatomical structure from which the appendix extends: In humans, the vermiform appendix is attached to and extends from the cecum.
Examples
- Noun:
- The ileocecal valve controls the flow of digested material from the small intestine into the cecum.
- In herbivores like rabbits, the cecum is large and plays a crucial role in digesting cellulose.
- The surgeon noted that the inflammation originated in the cecum.
Advanced Usage
- "Cecal" (adjective): Pertaining to the cecum.
- The patient underwent a cecal resection.
- In comparative anatomy, the size and function of the cecum vary greatly among different species, reflecting their diet.
Variants and Related Words
- Caecum: The British English spelling of "cecum".
- Cecal: (Adjective) Of or relating to the cecum.
- Ileocecal valve: The sphincter muscle valve separating the ileum (small intestine) from the cecum.
- Appendix / Vermiform appendix: A narrow, tube-shaped pouch attached to the posteromedial wall of the cecum.
Synonyms
- Blind gut: An older or less technical term referring to its pouch-like, closed-end structure.
Related Phrases / Terms
- Cecal volvulus: A condition where the cecum becomes twisted, which can lead to a bowel obstruction.
- Cecal bascule: A folding of a mobile cecum, which can also cause obstruction.
Noun
- the cavity in which the large intestine begins and into which the ileum opens
- the appendix is an offshoot of the cecum