The pouch between the small and large intestines is called the "cecum." It is a pouch within the peritoneum considered to be the beginning of the large intestine. The cecum receives chyme from the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine, and connects to the ascending colon of the large intestine. The cecum is separated from the ileum by the ileocecal valve. The cecum plays a role in absorption of fluids and salts remaining after digestion and helps lubricate solid waste passing into the large intestine. It is typically located on the right side of the body, and its name is derived from Latin meaning "blind," as it is a blind-ended pouch.
