Normal physiology of small intestinal motility

Surg Clin North Am. 1993 Dec;73(6):1173-92. doi: 10.1016/s0039-6109(16)46186-4.

Abstract

The small intestine produces a number of different contractions in various spatial and temporal patterns that promote efficient digestion, absorption, and propulsion of ingested material. The small bowel also serves a protective role through the use of special situation contractions that rapidly propel enteric contents into the stomach or colon, from which they may be expelled. Contractile activity of the small intestine is coordinated by an interplay of myogenic, neural, and chemical controls.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gastrointestinal Motility / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Intestine, Small / physiology*
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Muscle, Smooth / physiology
  • Myoelectric Complex, Migrating / physiology