Abdomen and Viscera: Structure, Functions and Digestive Organs

Abdomen (1)

Concept: The abdomen is the part of the body located between the chest (thorax) and the pelvis.

Functions (possibly related):

1. Digestive function

It houses organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas, responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption.

2. Excretory function

It contains organs like the kidneys and urinary tract, which filter waste and regulate body fluids.

3. Reproductive function

In women, it includes reproductive organs such as the uterus and ovaries.

4. Protective function

Abdominal muscles and the peritoneum protect internal organs from injuries.

5. Mechanical function

Abdominal muscles assist in breathing, posture, coughing, vomiting, and the expulsion of feces and urine.

6. Metabolic and storage function

The liver and abdominal fat tissue participate in metabolism and energy storage.

Viscera

Concept: A viscera (plural: viscerae) refers to the internal organs located within the main cavities of the body.

Function: The main function of the viscera is to maintain vital processes of the body, including breathing, digestion, circulation, excretion, and reproduction. Each viscus has a specific role essential for survival.

Stomach

Concept: The stomach is a muscular, hollow organ of the digestive system, located in the upper part of the abdomen, between the esophagus and the small intestine.

Function: The main function of the stomach is to break down food through mechanical movements and the chemical action of gastric juices, transforming it into chyme for further digestion and absorption in the small intestine.

Small Intestine

Concept: The small intestine is a long, narrow, and coiled tube located between the stomach and the large intestine. It is divided into three parts: duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.

Function: The main function of the small intestine is to complete the digestive process by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream.

Large Intestine

Its main function is to absorb water and electrolytes from undigested food, form and store feces, and maintain gut microbiota.

Liver

The liver processes nutrients, detoxifies harmful substances, produces bile for fat digestion, and stores energy in the form of glycogen.

Spleen

The spleen filters blood, removes old or damaged red blood cells, stores white blood cells and platelets, and helps fight infections.

Pancreas

The pancreas has dual functions: it produces digestive enzymes to break down food in the small intestine and secretes hormones (such as insulin and glucagon) to regulate blood sugar levels.