The hindgut (orepigaster) is the posterior (caudal) part of the alimentary canal. In mammals, it includes the distal one third of the transverse colon and the splenic flexure, the descending colon, sigmoid colon and up to the ano-rectal junction. In zoology, the term hindgut refers also to the cecum and ascending colon.
| Hindgut | |
|---|---|
Profile view of a human embryo estimated at twenty or twenty-one days old. (Hindgut labeled at lower left.)
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| Details | |
| Carnegie stage | 10 |
| Precursor | Mesenchyme |
| Gives rise to | Transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | metenteron |
| TE | E5.4.9.0.2.0.1 |
| FMA | 45618 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
Arterial supply is by the inferior mesenteric artery, and venous drainage is to the portal venous system. Lymphatic drainage is to the chyle cistern.
The hindgut is innervated via the inferior mesenteric plexus. Sympathetic innervation is from the lumbar splanchnic nerves (L1-L2), parasympathetic innervation is from S2-S4.
