Passaro's triangle

Passaro's Triangle is a significant anatomical region in the human body, specifically in the gastrointestinal tract. Named after the Italian surgeon, Ugo Passaro, this triangular area is located in the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

File:Duodenum diagram.svg

Diagram of the human gastrointestinal tract, highlighting the duodenum where Passaro's Triangle is located.

Passaro's Triangle is defined by three anatomical landmarks: the superior border is the inferior margin of the hepatic duct, the inferior border is the superior margin of the cystic duct, and the lateral border is the common bile duct. This region is of particular interest in gastroenterology and hepatobiliary surgery due to its proximity to the ampulla of Vater, a critical structure in the regulation of bile and pancreatic juice flow into the duodenum.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The location of Passaro's Triangle makes it a key area of interest in several medical procedures and conditions. It is often involved in cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal surgery), as well as in the diagnosis and treatment of choledocholithiasis (stones in the bile duct) and cholangitis (inflammation of the bile ducts).

In cholecystectomy, surgeons must carefully navigate around Passaro's Triangle to avoid damaging the bile ducts and causing bile leak, a serious postoperative complication. In choledocholithiasis and cholangitis, the triangle's proximity to the ampulla of Vater can help physicians locate and treat the problem.