Desjardins' point

Desjardins' Point

Diagram of the pancreas anatomy

Desjardins' point is a clinically significant anatomical landmark used in the diagnosis and management of pancreatic and biliary tract diseases. It is named after the French surgeon Auguste Desjardins, who contributed significantly to the understanding of pancreatic anatomy and its clinical implications.

Anatomical Location

Desjardins' point is located on the anterior abdominal wall. It is defined as the point where a line drawn from the right anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus intersects with a line drawn from the left anterior superior iliac spine to the right costal margin. This point roughly corresponds to the location of the ampulla of Vater, where the common bile duct and the pancreatic duct empty into the duodenum.

Clinical Significance

Desjardins' point is used as a reference in the physical examination of patients suspected of having pancreatitis or other pancreatic disorders. Tenderness at this point may indicate inflammation or other pathology involving the pancreas or the biliary system. It is particularly useful in the context of acute pancreatitis, where palpation of this area can help in the clinical assessment.

In addition to its use in physical examination, Desjardins' point is also relevant in certain diagnostic imaging techniques. For example, it can serve as a guide in ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans to focus on the region of the pancreas and the surrounding structures.

Related Anatomical Structures

The pancreas is a vital organ involved in both endocrine and exocrine functions. It is located in the retroperitoneal space of the abdomen and is closely associated with several important structures, including:

• The duodenum, which forms a C-shaped loop around the head of the pancreas.
• The spleen, which is located near the tail of the pancreas.
• The stomach, which lies anterior to the pancreas.
• The superior mesenteric artery and vein, which pass anterior to the uncinate process of the pancreas.

Related Pages

• Pancreas
• Biliary tract
• Ampulla of Vater
• Acute pancreatitis
• Auguste Desjardins