Transverse colon

Transverse Colon

The transverse colon is a significant part of the large intestine in the human digestive system. It is the longest and most mobile part of the colon, extending across the abdomen from the right to the left side. This section of the colon plays a crucial role in the absorption of water and salts from the material that has not been digested as food, and in the storage of waste before it is excreted from the body.

Diagram of the transverse colon

Anatomy

The transverse colon is located between the ascending colon and the descending colon. It begins at the hepatic flexure, where the ascending colon turns horizontally, and ends at the splenic flexure, where it turns downward to become the descending colon. The transverse colon is suspended by the transverse mesocolon, a fold of peritoneum that allows it to be quite mobile within the abdominal cavity.

Anatomical illustration of the large intestine

Structure

The transverse colon is approximately 45-60 cm in length. It is covered by peritoneum and is attached to the posterior abdominal wall by the transverse mesocolon. The transverse colon is unique in that it is the only part of the colon that is completely invested in peritoneum, making it intraperitoneal.

Schematic of the large intestine

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the transverse colon is primarily from the middle colic artery, a branch of the superior mesenteric artery. The transverse colon also receives blood from the left colic artery, a branch of the inferior mesenteric artery, particularly near the splenic flexure.

Function

The primary function of the transverse colon is to absorb water and salts from the material that has not been digested as food, and to store waste products until they are ready to be eliminated from the body. The transverse colon also plays a role in the fermentation of unabsorbed material by gut flora.

Diameters of the large intestine

Clinical Significance

The transverse colon can be involved in various medical conditions, such as colonic volvulus, where the colon twists on itself, or colitis, an inflammation of the colon. It is also a common site for the development of colorectal cancer.

Illustration of the intestines

Surgical Considerations

In surgical procedures involving the transverse colon, such as a colectomy, care must be taken to preserve the blood supply from the middle colic artery. The mobility of the transverse colon due to its mesocolon can be advantageous in certain surgical reconstructions.

Anatomy of the digestive system

Related Pages

• Large intestine
• Digestive system
• Colorectal cancer
• Colitis

The colon and its parts

Gallery

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  Diagram of the digestive system