Anatomy of the small intestine

The small intestine, comprising the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum commences at the pyloroduodenal (gastroduodenal) junction and ends at the ileocaecal junction. The principal function of the small intestine is the digestion and absorption of ingested food, electrolytes, and vitamins. As might be expected from its very active role as a secretory and absorptive viscus, the small intestine has a rich blood supply and an extensive surface area of absorptive mucosa. The blood supply is derived chiefly from the superior mesenteric artery via its inferior pancreaticoduodenal, jejunal and ileal branches.
Source: Surgery (Medicine Publishing) - Category: Surgery Authors: Tags: Basic science Source Type: research