Anatomy Glossary

a drug or dietary substance that buffers, neutralizes, or absorbs hydrochloric acid in the stomach. (Source)

The opening at the lower end of the digestive tract through which solid waste is eliminated from the body. (Source)

 (ap'pen-DEK-tō-mē) Surgical removal of the appendix. (Source)

inflammation of the vermiform appendix, a serious disease that usually requires surgical removal (appendectomy). (Source)

The worm-shaped pouch attached to the cecum, the beginning of the large intestine. (Source)

a test that uses x-ray examination to view the large intestine. There are two types of this test: the single-contrast technique where barium sulfate is injected into the rectum in order to gain a profile view of the large intestine; and the double-contrast (or "air contrast") technique where air is [also] inserted into the rectum. (Source)

A bitter, alkaline, brownish-yellow or greenish-yellow fluid that is secreted by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and discharged into the duodenum and aids in the emulsification, digestion, and absorption of fats. Also called gall. (source)

a feeling of "abdominal fullness or swelling, usually understood to mean due to retention of gas in the stomach or GI tract." (Source)

A general term for the small and large intestines; intestine (Source)

The administration of a clear liquid diet with laxatives, enemas, or both, in anticipation of endoscopy of the lower gastrointestinal tract to provide an optimal view of the bowel wall. (Source)

a cleansing of the intestines from fecal matter and secretions...The ultimate goal of bowel preparation is to empty and cleanse the bowel for a diagnostic procedure (using x-rays to detect a disease process in the intestines) or for surgical intervention (such as removal of polyps) (Source)