New concept of ileocecal junction: intussusception of the terminal ileum into the cecum.
OBJECTIVE
To prove that the terminal ileum is intussuscepted into the cecum creating the ileocecal junction, contrary to previous valvular concept which has been widely believed.


METHODS
This study is based on gross and microscopic examinations of fresh specimens derived from colonic operations (right hemicolectomy or subtotal colectomy). Data compiled from observing and dissecting of specimens of seven patients are used to examine both gross and microscopic appearance of ileocecal junction.


RESULTS
Intussusception of the terminal ileum was found in every specimen. However, the length of intussusception was different in each specimen.


CONCLUSIONS
Gross and microscopic appearance studies suggest that the terminal ileum is intussuscepted into the cecum.
Awapittaya
Burin
B
Colorectal Division, Department of Surgery, Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok 10400, Thailand. burinmail@gmail.com
Pattana-arun
Jirawat
J
Tansatit
Tanwa
T
Kanjanasilpa
Prapon
P
Sahakijrungruang
Chucheep
C
Rojanasakul
Arun
A
D000368:Aged; D002432:Cecum / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D003082:Colectomy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007077:Ileal Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D007080:Ileocecal Valve / Q000473:pathology*; D007082:Ileum / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D007443:Intussusception / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged