Pylorus

Stomach emptying into duodenum

The Pylorus is the region of the stomach that connects to the duodenum. It is divided into two parts, the pyloric antrum (antrum pyloricum) and the pyloric canal (canalis pyloricus). The pylorus plays a significant role in the digestive system, as it is responsible for the passage of partially digested food from the stomach to the small intestine.

Anatomy

The pylorus is located at the lower section of the stomach. It is surrounded by a strong muscle, known as the pyloric sphincter, which controls the passage of chyme (partially digested food) from the stomach into the duodenum. The pyloric antrum is the initial portion of the pylorus and is near the body of the stomach. The pyloric canal is the final part of the pylorus that communicates with the duodenum.

Function

The primary function of the pylorus is to regulate the passage of food from the stomach to the duodenum. The pyloric sphincter, a ring of smooth muscle, contracts and relaxes to control this passage. When the sphincter is contracted, it holds food in the stomach, allowing further digestion. When it relaxes, it allows the chyme to pass into the duodenum for further digestion and absorption.

Clinical significance

Several medical conditions are associated with the pylorus. Pyloric stenosis is a condition in which the pyloric sphincter becomes abnormally thickened, leading to a narrowing of the pyloric canal. This can cause severe vomiting in infants. Peptic ulcers can also occur in the pylorus, leading to pain and potentially serious complications such as bleeding or perforation. In addition, gastric cancer can develop in the pylorus.

See also

• Stomach
• Duodenum
• Digestive system
• Pyloric stenosis
• Peptic ulcer
• Gastric cancer

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