Which digestive organs would be transected by a transverse plane that passes through the navel (umbilicus)?

• A. Stomach and small intestine
• B. Pancreas and rectum
• C. Esophagus and liver
• D. Small intestine and large intestine

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomical location of the navel (umbilicus). The navel is located approximately at the level of the L3-L4 vertebrae in the abdominal region, which is a key reference point for dividing the body into transverse planes.
2. Step 2: Recall the concept of a transverse plane. A transverse plane divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions. When passing through the navel, it intersects structures located in the mid-abdominal region.
3. Step 3: Identify the digestive organs located in the mid-abdominal region. The small intestine (specifically the jejunum and ileum) and the large intestine (including parts like the transverse colon) are situated in this area.
4. Step 4: Exclude other options based on anatomical location. For example, the stomach is located higher in the abdominal cavity (epigastric region), the pancreas is retroperitoneal and higher, the rectum is located in the pelvic cavity, and the esophagus and liver are located superior to the navel.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the transverse plane passing through the navel would transect the small intestine and large intestine, as these are the digestive organs located at this level.