The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. The hollow organs that make up the GI tract are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus. The liver, pancreas, and gallbladder are the solid organs of the digestive system.
Liver
- An organ which detoxifies various metabolites, synthesizes proteins, and produces biochemicals necessary for digestion.
- Located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, below the diaphragm.
- Other roles in metabolism include the regulation of glycogen storage, decomposition of red blood cells, and the production of hormones.
Pancreas
- A gland organ
- Located in the abdomen
- Part of the digestive system and produces insulin and other important enzymes and hormones that help break down foods.
Gallbladder
- A small pouch that sits just under the liver.
- Stores bile produced by the liver.
- After meals, the gallbladder is empty and flat, like a deflated balloon. Before a meal, the gallbladder may be full of bile and about the size of a small pear.
