PYLORUS Meaning and
Definition
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The pylorus is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific part of the digestive system. It is a muscular area located at the lower end of the stomach, near the point where the stomach connects to the small intestine. The pylorus acts as a gatekeeper that regulates the passage of food from the stomach into the small intestine.
The pyloric region consists of two main parts: the pyloric antrum, which is the wider upper portion, and the pyloric canal, which is the narrower lower portion. These sections are separated by the pyloric sphincter, a circular band of muscle that controls the flow of partially digested food, known as chyme, into the small intestine.
The pylorus plays a vital role in the digestion and regulation of food. It works by contracting and relaxing to control the rate at which chyme passes into the small intestine. This process allows for the proper mixing, breakdown, and absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.
Abnormalities in the pylorus can cause various health issues. One example is pyloric stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the pyloric canal, leading to obstruction and difficulty with food passage. Pyloric stenosis often requires medical intervention, such as surgical correction or medical treatments, to alleviate the obstruction and restore normal digestive function.
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Pyloric orifice; the aperture between the stomach and small intestine (duodenum).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The lower and right-hand orifice of the stomach leading to the intestines.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PYLORUS
Etymology of PYLORUS
The word "pylorus" originates from the Ancient Greek word "πύλωρος" (pulōros), which can be broken down as "πύλη" (pulē) meaning "gate" and "ὠρα" (ōra) meaning "that through which something is done". The term was initially used in Ancient Greek to refer to the valve-like structure located at the lower end of the stomach, which serves as the gateway regulating the passage of partially digested food into the small intestine. Over time, the word "pylorus" was adopted into Latin and subsequently into English, while maintaining its original meaning.
Similar spelling word for PYLORUS
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