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Ileum

By , About.com Guide

Updated: January 03, 2009

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Definition: The ileum is the last segment of the three segments of the small intestine. It is partially responsible for absorbing nutrients into the body.

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Before Your Surgery

Common Questions About Surgery

Pronunciation: ill-ee-uhm
Common Misspellings: illium
Examples: During weight loss surgery the first two segments of the small intestine are bypassed, leaving only the ileum to absorb nutrients.
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