Specimen Image
The colon (large intestine) is the distal part of the gastrointestinal tract, extending from the cecum to the anal canal. It receives digested food from the small intestine, from which it absorbs water and electrolytes to form faeces.
Anatomically, the colon can be divided into four parts – ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid. These sections form an arch, which encircles the small intestine.
In this article, we shall look at the anatomy of the colon – its anatomical structure and relations, neurovascular supply, and clinical correlations.
Anatomical Position
The colon averages 150cm in length, and can be divided into four parts (proximal to distal): ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid.
Rack Number
Specimen Number
15