Appendix
Appendix vermiformis is the Latin pronunciation for Appendix. It is also known by the names.
- Vermiform Appendix
- Cecal Appendix
- Vermix
The word Vermiform means Worm Shaped. It is a dead ended tube connected to Cecum (pouch like structure) from where it is developed Embryologically (early stage of development from first cell division to birth). It is situated at the meeting place of Small Intestine and Large Intestine.
read more
Salivary Glands PancreasEsophagus LiverGallbladder Ascending Colon
Ileum Rectum AppendixPancreasStomach Transverse ColonDescending Colon Cecum Parotid Gland Sublingual Gland
Submandibular Gland Coronary LigamentCystic Duct DuedonumFalciform Ligament Pons
Gallbladder Hepatic Duct Pancreatic Duct Common Bile Duct Parotid Gland Sublingual GlandSubmandibular Gland
Appendix
ANATOMICAL POSITION AND SIZE
Average length of human appendix is 11 cm but it varies from 2 to 20 cm and its diameter is between 7 to 8 mm.
It is located near the right Hip bone in right lower side of the Abdomen. Its position within the abdomen is known as McBurney’s Point. The base is at a constant location below Ileoceal Valve (valve at junction of small and large intestine). Tip of appendix can vary from being at Retroceal (behind the Cecum) to being in Pelvis and to Extraperitonial (Serous membrane forming lining of Abdominal Cavity).
FUNCTION
Human Appendix has been proposed to be a Vestigial Organ meaning an organ which has lost all or most of its function over the process of evolution.
USES IN OTHER WAYS
There have been few uses of Appendix over the time of medical history i.e.
- Construction of Efferent Urinary Conduit through an operation known as Mitrofanoff Procedure for people with Neurogenic Bladder.
- It is also use to access the colon in children with Paralyzed Bowels or Major Rectal Sphincter Problems.
DISEASES
Most common diseases related to appendix are Appendicitis and Carcinoid Tumors. Appendix Cancer has the statistics of 1 in 200 of all gastrointestinal diseases. Surgery for the Vermiform Appendix is known as Appendectomy and is usually performed as an emergency for the person suffering with acute Appendicitis.
Report Error