Duodenum

The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine in most higher vertebrates, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. In mammals it may be the principal site for iron absorption. The duodenum precedes the jejunum and ileum and is the shortest part of the small intestine.

Duodenum
Image of the gastrointestinal tract, with the duodenum highlighted.
Diagram of the human duodenum with major parts labelled
Details
Pronunciation/ˌdjəˈdnəm/, US also /djuˈɒdɪnəm/
PrecursorForegut (1st and 2nd parts), Midgut (3rd and 4th part)
Part ofSmall intestine
SystemDigestive system
ArteryInferior pancreaticoduodenal artery, Superior pancreaticoduodenal artery
VeinPancreaticoduodenal veins
Nerveceliac ganglia, vagus
Identifiers
MeSHD004386
TA98A05.6.02.001
TA22944
FMA7206
Anatomical terminology

In humans, the duodenum is a hollow jointed tube about 25–38 centimetres (10–15 inches) long connecting the stomach to the middle part of the small intestine. It begins with the duodenal bulb and ends at the suspensory muscle of duodenum. Duodenum can be divided into four parts: the first (superior), the second (descending), the third (transverse) and the fourth (ascending) parts.

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