Anatomy of the Small Intestine

The small intestine is the longest part of the GI tract, extending from the pyloric orifice of the stomach to the ileocecal junction. The small intestine is the major organ responsible for chemical digestion and absorption of nutrients. The small intestine is divided into 3 segments: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. Like the entire GI tract, the walls of the small intestine have several layers: an inner absorptive mucosal layer (which is made up of an epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis mucosa) and submucosal, muscular, and serosal layers. The arterial supply to the small intestine is via branches of the superior mesenteric artery, and veins drain into the hepatic portal system. The small intestine is innervated by the ANS.