Peristalsis

peristalsis /peri·stal·sis/ (-stahl´sis) the wormlike movement by which the alimentary canal or other tubular organs having both longitudinal and circular muscle fibers propel their contents, consisting of a wave of contraction passing along the tube for variable distances.peristal´tic

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per·i·stal·sis (pr-stôlss, -stl-)

n. pl. per·i·stal·ses (-sz)

The wavelike muscular contractions of the intestine or other tubular structure that propel the contents onward by alternate contraction and relaxation. Also called vermicular movement.

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peri·staltic (-stôltk, -stl-) adj.

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Peristalsis

A sequence of muscle contractions that progressively squeeze one small section of the digestive tract and then the next to push food along the tract, something like pushing toothpaste out of its tube.

Mentioned in: Achalasia, Colonic Irrigation, Diffuse Esophageal Spasm, Esophageal Disorders, Heartburn, Intestinal Obstructions, Intestinal Polyps, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Vagotomy

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peristalsis

the wormlike movement by which the alimentary canal or other tubular organs with both longitudinal and circular muscle fibers propel their contents, consisting of a wave of contraction passing along the tube. Increased peristalsis means faster movement of ingesta through the gut and less absorption of fluid, both tending to diarrhea. Reduced peristalsis means a longer alimentary sojourn, greater inspissation of ingesta and a tendency to constipation. See also peristaltic, paralytic ileus.

Peristalsis. By permission from Aspinall V, O'Reilly M, Introduction to Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, Butterworth Heinemann, 2004

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reverse peristalsis

peristalsis directed orally is a result of intestinal obstruction and acute, significant distention of the intestinal lumen; it is a major contributing mechanism in vomiting.