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SMALL AND LARGE INTESTINE

The small intestine is located in the abdomen, where it connects the stomach to the large intestine. It is important to the digestive system because it digests food and absorbs nutrients. The small intestine's chemical digestion uses enzymes and bile acids from the pancreas and bile ducts. A gastroenterologist can diagnose and treat problems of the small intestine, including:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Crohn's Disease

Celiac Disease

The large intestine includes the appendix, colon, rectum, and anal tract. The colon absorbs water and vitamins from food that the small intestine can not digest and moves waste material to the rectum, the last part of the digestive tract. Healthy bacteria live in the colon and help break down fiber and produce some vitamins, such as potassium (K) and biotin. Our specialists can treat medical disorders of the large intestine, including:

Crohn's Disease

Diverticular Disease

Microscopic Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis Disease

Colorectal Cancer

Diagram of the Digestive Tract

2023 Best Hospitals - Gastroenterology and GI Surgery

#29 in the Nation (Tie) by U.S. News & World Report

Find a doctor or make an appointment: 866.867.3627
General Information: 314.747.3000
One Barnes-Jewish Plaza
St. Louis, MO 63110
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