Information provided by Healthline.com

Peristalsis Health Article

Licensed from Print
Table of Contents
Reviewer Info: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 10/13/2006

Definition

Peristalsis is a series of organized muscle contractions that occur throughout the digestive tract. Peristalsis is also seen in the tubular organs that connect the kidneys to the bladder.

Peristalsis is an automatic and important process that moves food through the digestive system. It also moves urine from the kidneys into the bladder, and bile from the gallbladder into the duodenum.

Peristalsis is a normal function of the body. It can sometimes be felt in the abdomen as gas moves along.

Alternative Names

Intestinal motility

advertisement

Back to Top Print

Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.