10 FAQs About the Duodenum
Article Sources
- 1. Collins, Jason T. 'Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Small Intestine.' StatPearls /[Internet/]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 10 Aug. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459366/
- 2. Lopez, Peter P. 'Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Duodenum.' StatPearls /[Internet/]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Aug. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482390/
- 3. Khanna, Seema, et al. 'Distal Duodenal Obstruction: a Surgical Enigma.' The Indian Journal of Surgery, Springer India, June 2017, [www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5473798/.](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5473798/.)
- 4. Shuck, Jerry M. Duodenal Diverticula. Surgical Treatment: Evidence-Based and Problem-Oriented., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1970, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK6891/
It Helps Break Down Food
The head of the pancreas sits in the C-shaped area of the small intestine. Also, it plays a role in the duodenum's functions. It secretes digestive enzymes so the small intestine can break down fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
Additionally, the gallbladder works with the duodenum to help it better absorb and digest fat using the bile it stores from the liver. These intestinal juices and digestive enzymes aid in the digestion process.
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