Ileocaecal valve

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Ileocaecal valve is a part of the human digestive system that connects the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) to the caecum (the first part of the large intestine). It plays a crucial role in digestion by controlling the flow of chyme from the small intestine to the large intestine and preventing the backflow of contents.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The ileocaecal valve, also known as the Bauhin's valve, is a sphincter muscle valve that separates the small intestine from the large intestine. It is located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. The valve is usually 2 inches in length and is surrounded by the ileocaecal fold, a peritoneal fold.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the ileocaecal valve is to prevent the backflow of contents from the large intestine into the small intestine. It also slows down the passage of chyme from the ileum to the caecum, allowing for further digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Diseases and conditions that can affect the ileocaecal valve include Crohn's disease, appendicitis, and ileocaecal valve syndrome. These conditions can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Crohn's disease[edit | edit source]

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the ileocaecal valve. Inflammation of the valve can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Appendicitis[edit | edit source]

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch that is attached to the caecum near the ileocaecal valve. If the appendix becomes inflamed, it can put pressure on the valve and cause abdominal pain.

Ileocaecal valve syndrome[edit | edit source]

Ileocaecal valve syndrome is a condition in which the valve does not function properly. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain.

See also[edit | edit source]

Ileocaecal valve Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD