MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Segmentation contractions (or movements) are a type of intestinal motility. Unlike peristalsis, which predominates in the esophagus, segmentation contractions occur in the large intestine and small intestine, while predominating in the latter.

Detailed explanation-2: -This segmentation occurs when the intestine divides into many sections due to simultaneous transient contractions, and when these contractions subside, contractions appear more or less at the sites in between the original contractions giving a checkered appearance.

Detailed explanation-3: -The act of segmentation, which resembles a muscle contraction in the small intestine, primarily contributes to the mixing of food. Circular muscles contract throughout the motion in both the backward and forward directions. Furthermore, it assists in fragmenting the chyme.

Detailed explanation-4: -Peristalsis involves pushing bolus in a downward direction (one-way motion). Segmentation moves chyme in both directions. Peristalsis involves rhythmic contractions of the longitudinal muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. Segmentation involves contractions of the circular muscles in the digestive tract.