Title: Small intestine: Anatomy, location and function | Kenhub
Headings: Small intestine
Small intestine: want to learn more about it?
Small intestine
Contents
Anatomy
Duodenum
Jejunum
Ileum
Histology
Function
Blood vessels
Innervation
Clinical relations
Duodenal ulcer
Small intestine: want to learn more about it?

Content: Concerning absorption, carbohydrates and proteins are absorbed in the duodenum and jejunum respectively. The jejunum also functions to absorb most fats. The ileum function involves absorption of vitamin B12, bile salts and all digestion products which were not absorbed in duodenum and jejunum. All three small intestine segments absorb water and electrolytes. Take this specially designed quiz to see how your well your small intestine knowledge has stuck! Small intestine anatomy Start quiz
Blood vessels
Arteries of the small intestine
The duodenum is supplied by the branches of the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery (SMA); the superior, middle and inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries. The jejunum and ileum are supplied by 15-18 branches of the SMA called the jejunal and ileal arteries. They anastomose with each other to form arterial arcades which send numerous straight arteries (vasa recta) to the jejunum and ileum. The small intestines drain into the hepatic portal vein.