Glossary

Gastroenterology/Hepatology Program

Glossary

Anus: the opening of the rectum to the outside of the body

Bowel (intestines): the long, tube-like organ that completes the process of digestion, consisting of the small and large intestine

Cecum: the first part of the large intestine

Duodenum: the first part of the small intestine

Enteral nutrition: nutrition provided to the body within the intestines

Esophagus: the tube that connects the pharynx (throat) with the stomach

Gastroenterologist: a physician who specializes in disorders of the digestive system

Gastrointestinal Tract

Upper GI tract — mouth, pharynx, esophagus and stomach
Lower GI tract — intestines (bowel) and the anus. The bowel consists of the
- Small intestine — the duodenum, jejunum and ileum
- Large intestine — the cecum (where the appendix is attached), colon and rectum

Hepatologist: a physician who specializes in disorders of the liver, bile ducts and gallbladder

Ileum: the last part of the small intestine, just before the large intestine (colon)

Intestine: bowel

Jejunum: the second part of the small intestine

Large intestine (colon): the part of the intestine that runs from the cecum to the rectum (it is wider than the small intestine)

Pancreaticobiliary disease: diseases of the pancreas, liver and bile ducts

Pharynx: the hollow tube that starts behind the nose and ends at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus

Rectum: the last part of the large intestine

Small intestine: the part of the digestive tract from the stomach to the large intestine

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN): nutrition provided to the body through a large vein

Monthly articles about the health topics of your choice!

Find a Doctor

Get Directions

Request an Appointment