The abdomen houses the organs responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic processing, and this course builds a working map of that region from the outside in. The course opens with surface anatomy and the layers of the anterolateral abdominal wall, then works through the peritoneum and the reflections that organize the abdominal cavity into compartments.

Anatomy & Physiology: Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System

Anatomy & Physiology: Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System
This course is part of Medical School Anatomy and Physiology II Professional Certificate


Instructors: Thad Wilson, PhD
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
3 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Identify the layers of the anterolateral and posterior abdominal wall and the peritoneal reflections that organize the cavity.
Trace the anatomy of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen.
Map the arterial supply and venous drainage of the abdominal viscera.
Explain gastrointestinal motility, secretion, digestion, and absorption.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know

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Assessments
95 assignments
Taught in English
Recently updated!
September 2026
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Build your Basic Science expertise
This course is part of the Medical School Anatomy and Physiology II Professional Certificate
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Professional Certificate.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
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There are 11 modules in this course
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