Colon, Cecum, and Appendix Anatomy

The large intestine constitutes the last portion of the digestive system. The large intestine consists of the cecum, appendix, colon (with ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid segments), rectum, and anal canal. The primary function of the colon is to remove water and compact the stool prior to expulsion from the body via the rectum and anal canal. The colon also contains many mucus-secreting glands to lubricate the stool passing through it. The colon receives its blood supply from colic branches of the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries, which form an important anastomosis along the transverse colon. The colon is regulated by the ANS and receives both sympathetic (inhibitory) and parasympathetic (stimulatory) input.