A Summary of the Human Digestive System

by, Mark

The Appendix

Facts for the Appendix

The appendix is a small, worm shaped tube, located on the lower right side of the abdomen.

It is about .5 inch thick and varies from .5 inch to 8 inches in length.

The appendix has no known function, probably a remnant of a previous digestive organ.

The conditions appendicitis and peritonitis are related to the appendix.

Bile duct is kept closed by sphincter muscles.

Information on the Appendix

The appendix is a small, tubular, worm-shaped organ connected to the first part of the large intestine. Digestive matter flows into the appendix from the intestine and is forced back by peristaltic-like contractions. The appendix has no known function and many scientists believe that the appendix at one time was a useful part of the digestion system, but that it has been gradually been lost to evolution.

Multimedia

Back To Home Page

Last Updated On: July 24, 2000