anatomy of small intestine

Objectives
to study the gross anatomy of the small and large intestine
describe:
the gross differences between the small intestine and large intestine
the jejunum & the ileum and their characteristic features
blood supply (superior mesenteric artery & vein) and its distribution to the small intestine
the parts, appearance and blood supply of the large intestine anastomosing loops of the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries which form the marginal artery
location of the paracolic gutters
recto-vesicle & recto-uterine pouches
The small intestine is a tubular structure that extends from the pylorus to the cecum.
The estimated length of this thought measure 4 to 6 m
Duodenum
the first and shortest (25cm, breadth of 12 fingers) segment .
widest and most fixed part.
a C-shaped course around the head of the pancreas.
It begins at the pylorus on the right side and ends at the duodenojejunal flexure (junction) on the left side.
This junction occurs at approximately the level of L2 vertebra, 2-3cm left of the midline. The junction usually takes the form of an acute angle.
 Most of the duodenum is fixed by peritoneum to structures on the posterior abdominal wall, and is considered partly retroperitoneal.
 Role in mixing digestive juices derived from the liver & pancreas & from its own wall.
2nd part has the openings of the major & minor duodenal papillae
Crescent-shaped mucosal folds (plicae circulares);permanent
Mucosa adapted for mixing, secretion & digestion