Description

What is Duodenum? The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine, located immediately after the stomach. It is a C-shaped, hollow tube that plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Here are some key features and functions of the duodenum: 1. Location: The duodenum is situated in the upper abdomen, mainly on the right side. It begins at the pylorus, the opening of the stomach, and connects to the jejunum, the second part of the small intestine. 2. Length and divisions: The duodenum is approximately 10 inches (25 cm) long. It is divided into four segments: a. First part (duodenal bulb): This is the initial portion of the duodenum, which receives partially digested food from the stomach through the pylorus. b. Second part (descending duodenum): It descends vertically downward, receiving digestive enzymes from the pancreas via the pancreatic duct and bile from the liver through the common bile duct. c. Third part (horizontal duodenum): It extends horizontally across the abdomen, and it is at this section where the bile duct and pancreatic duct join to form the ampulla of Vater, which releases their secretions into the duodenum through the major duodenal papilla. d. Fourth part (ascending duodenum): It ascends back up to meet the jejunum, the next section of the small intestine. 3. Functions: The duodenum performs essential functions in the digestive process: a. Mixing and neutralization: The duodenum receives acidic chyme (partially digested food) from the stomach and mixes it with digestive enzymes and bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice. This mixture neutralizes the acidic pH of the chyme, creating an optimal environment for digestion to continue. b. Digestion and absorption: The duodenum receives enzymes from the pancreas, such as pancreatic amylase, lipase, and proteases, which help break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also absorbs nutrients, including iron, calcium, and certain vitamins. c. Regulation of digestive processes: The duodenum releases hormones such as secretin and cholecystokinin (CCK), which regulate the secretion of digestive enzymes from the pancreas and the release of bile from the gallbladder. 4 Interaction with other organs: The duodenum interacts closely with several other organs involved in digestion. The pancreatic duct and common bile duct deliver pancreatic enzymes and bile into the duodenum. The gallbladder stores and releases bile, which aids in fat digestion. Additionally, the duodenum receives blood supply from branches of the celiac artery and is innervated by nerves from the vagus nerve and sympathetic system. The duodenum's position and functions make it a crucial site for digestion and nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal system. It acts as a gateway between the stomach and the rest of the small intestine, facilitating the continued breakdown of food and absorption of nutrients as part of the digestive process. COMMON DISEASES OF DUODENUM ARE : • DUODENAL ULCER • SMA SYNDROME • DUODENAL PERFORATION • CANCER OF DUODENUM

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