PANCREAS

Pancreas

The pancreas is a vital organ located in the abdominal cavity, playing a crucial role in digestion and glucose regulation. It is a long, narrow, and slightly curved gland situated in the retroperitoneal space, behind the stomach and in front of the spine.

1. Morphology of Pancreas

   • The pancreas is divided into two main parts: the head and the tail.
   • The head is situated on the right side, near the duodenum, and is wider and more rounded.
   • The body is the middle portion, which is narrower and more cylindrical in shape.
   • The tail is situated on the left side, near the spleen, and is the narrowest part.

2. Duct System of Pancreas

   • The pancreas has two ducts: the main pancreatic duct and the accessory pancreatic duct.
   • The main pancreatic duct, also known as the duct of Wirsung, is the larger and more prominent of the two ducts.
   • The main pancreatic duct opens into the second part of the duodenum.
   • The accessory pancreatic duct, also known as the duct of Santorini, is smaller and shorter than the main pancreatic duct.
   • The accessory pancreatic duct opens into the major duodenal papilla, which is situated near the junction of the first and second parts of the duodenum.

3. Blood and Nerve Supply of Pancreas

   • Blood Supply
     • The pancreas is supplied by blood from the superior and inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries.
     • The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery arises from the gastroduodenal artery.
     • The inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery arises from the superior mesenteric artery.
   • Nerve Supply
     • The pancreas is innervated by the vagus nerve and the splanchnic nerves.
     • The vagus nerve provides parasympathetic fibers to the pancreas.
     • The splanchnic nerves provide sympathetic fibers to the pancreas.

Applied Anatomy

• The pancreas is located behind the stomach and in front of the spine, making it vulnerable to injury during surgeries or trauma to the abdominal region.
• The head of the pancreas is situated near the duodenum, which is why pancreatic cancer often presents with symptoms such as jaundice and weight loss.
• The pancreas plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, making it essential for the body's metabolic functions.