Descending Colon

The descending colon is a part of the large intestine that plays an important role in the digestive system. It is the first segment of the colon and the second part of the large intestine. The descending colon begins at the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, just below the ribcage, and extends downward and to the left, ending near the left hip. Its main function is to absorb water and electrolytes from the chyme, the partly digested food that enters the colon from the small intestine, and to store waste products before they are eliminated from the body. The descending colon is important in the absorption of water and electrolytes from the chyme. It is lined with a mucous membrane that contains small, finger-like projections called villi. The villi absorb nutrients, electrolytes, and water from the chyme, and the absorbed substances are then transported to the bloodstream. The descending colon also contains a large number of glands that secrete mucus which lubricates the chyme and helps it to move through the colon. In addition to its role in digestion, the descending colon also helps to maintain the balance of electrolytes in the body.