Pronunciation: [kˈapʊt kˈə͡ʊli] (IPA) 
Caput coli is a medical term that refers to the top, or head, of the colon. In terms of its pronunciation, caput is pronounced as "KAP-uht" using the IPA phonetic transcription [ˈkæp.ət]. Meanwhile, coli is pronounced as "KOH-lye" using [ˈkəʊ.li]. To spell this word correctly, it's important to keep in mind the pronunciation of the "c" as it makes a hard "K" sound, rather than a soft "S" sound in many other words.
Caput coli refers to the head or uppermost part of the colon, which is the largest portion of the large intestine. Specifically, caput coli is the part of the colon that lies in the right upper portion of the abdomen, just below the liver.
The caput coli serves as the starting point of the colon, where the ascending colon begins. It is connected to the cecum, the pouch-like structure that forms the beginning of the large intestine. The caput coli is responsible for receiving the digested food from the small intestine and further facilitating the absorption of water and electrolytes from the remaining contents.
In terms of anatomy, the caput coli is characterized by its muscular walls and its role in propelling fecal matter along the colon. It possesses contractions known as haustra, which assist in the movement and mixing of the intestinal contents. The caput coli also contains numerous blood vessels and lymphatic vessels that supply essential nutrients, oxygen, and immune cells to maintain its proper functioning.
Understanding the location and function of the caput coli is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it can play a role in various digestive disorders, such as colonic volvulus or colon cancer. Being aware of the caput coli aids in the proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions.
Cecum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word caput coli has its roots in Latin. Caput means head or top, while coli comes from collum meaning neck. Therefore, caput coli can be translated as the head of the colon or top of the colon.
