Doubtless some of the statements herein made may be a radical departure from those generally believed and accepted by the profession; however, I shall try to make no claim that can not be substantiated. I believe it is universally recognized that the sigmoid flexure begins in the left iliac fossa, at the outer border of the psoas muscle, and that the rectum ends at the anus. The part of intestine included between these two points, therefore, constitutes the rectum and sigmoid. With reference to the point of division between these two organs, there seems to be a difference of opinion. However, we shall not discuss that question in this connection, but recognize that portion having a mesocolon as the sigmoid and the remainder as the rectum. This makes the point of division about opposite the third sacral vertebra. The sigmoid has two fixed points only—the first, its beginning where it