217CHAPTER6
Digestive System
OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
- Describe the type of medical treatment the gastroenterologist provides.
- Identify digestive structures by labeling them on anatomical illustrations.
- Describe the primary functions of the digestive system.
- Describe diseases, conditions, and procedures related to the digestive system.
- Apply your word-building skills by constructing medical terms related to the digestive system.
- Describe common abbreviations and symbols related to the digestive system.
- Recognize, define, pronounce, and spell terms correctly.
- Demonstrate your knowledge of this chapter by successfully completing the frames, reviews,
and medical report evaluations.
MEDICAL SPECIALTY
Gastroenterology
Medical doctors who treat diseases and disorders of the digestive system,also called gastrointestinal (GI) system,
are known as gastroenterologists. Various diagnostic procedures are employed to evaluate and treat disorders of the
GI system. One of which is a commonly used diagnostic procedure known as endoscopy.This procedure involves the
use of a flexible lighted instrument to examine the organs of the digestive system and is effectively used to inspect the
esophagus, stomach, intestines, and bile ducts. Endoscopy has made it possible to identify various pathological con-
ditions, including cancers, at an early stage. In addition to endoscopy, imaging procedures, blood tests, and tissue biop-
sies help establish or verify the initial diagnosis.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OVERVIEW
The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food, prepare it for absorption, and eliminate waste
substances. The digestive system consists of a digestive tube, called the GI tractor alimentary canal.It includes the
esophagus, stomach, intestines, and several accessory organs: the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. The GI tract, extending
from the oral cavity (mouth) to the anus, varies in size and structure in several distinct regions. It terminates at the
anus, where solid wastes are eliminated from the body by means of defecation. (See Fig. 6–1.)