The first part of the small intestine extending from the pylorus (the muscular valve at the lower end of the stomach) to the ligament of Treitz, which marks the boundary between the duodenum and the jejunum (the second part of the small intestine). It is about 25 cm long and shaped like a C; it forms a loop around the head of the pancreas. Ducts from the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder feed into the duodenum through a small opening. Digestive enzymes in the pancreatic secretions and chemicals in the bile are released into the duodenum through this opening.
Duodenum |
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