Medical Terminology & Anatomy Flashcards

What does the medical term 'diverticulum' describe when referring to the colon?

Answer: A small pouch or sac protruding through the colon wall

A diverticulum is an outpouching or herniation of the mucosal layer through weak points in the colon wall, commonly found in the sigmoid colon.

The ascending colon is located on which side of the abdominal cavity?

Answer: Right side, from the cecum to the hepatic flexure

The ascending colon travels upward on the right side of the abdomen from the cecum to the hepatic (right colic) flexure.

In medical terminology, the suffix '-scopy' indicates:

Answer: Visual examination using an instrument

The suffix '-scopy' means visual examination, as in colonoscopy (visual examination of the colon using a scope).

Which part of the autonomic nervous system stimulates increased intestinal motility and is dominant during colonic hydrotherapy?

Answer: Parasympathetic nervous system

The parasympathetic nervous system (via the vagus nerve and sacral nerves) stimulates GI motility, secretion, and relaxation of sphincters.

The term 'cecum' derives from the Latin word meaning:

Answer: Blind

Cecum comes from the Latin 'caecum,' meaning blind, referring to the blind-ended pouch at the start of the large intestine.

What is the primary function of goblet cells found in the colonic mucosa?

Answer: Secreting mucus to lubricate and protect the colon lining

Goblet cells are specialized epithelial cells throughout the GI tract that secrete mucin glycoproteins, forming the protective mucus layer of the colon.

Which term correctly describes the condition of an abnormally slow transit time through the colon?

Answer: Colonic inertia

Colonic inertia (also called slow-transit constipation) refers to significantly delayed movement of contents through the large intestine due to reduced colonic motility.