Sphincter of Boyden

Sphincter of Boyden is an anatomical structure found in the human digestive system. It is a sphincter, or circular muscle, that controls the flow of bile and pancreatic juice into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The Sphincter of Boyden is also known as the hepatopancreatic sphincter or the sphincter of Oddi.

Anatomy

The Sphincter of Boyden is located at the junction of the bile duct and the pancreatic duct, where they merge to form the ampulla of Vater. This sphincter is composed of smooth muscle and is under involuntary control. It is responsible for regulating the release of bile and pancreatic juice into the duodenum.

Function

The primary function of the Sphincter of Boyden is to control the flow of digestive juices into the small intestine. When food enters the stomach, the sphincter relaxes, allowing bile and pancreatic juice to flow into the duodenum. This aids in the digestion and absorption of fats and vitamins.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the Sphincter of Boyden can lead to several medical conditions. Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) is a condition in which the sphincter does not relax properly, leading to abdominal pain and pancreatitis. Gallstones can also form if the sphincter is not functioning properly, as bile can back up into the gallbladder.

See also

• Sphincter
• Bile duct
• Pancreatic duct
• Ampulla of Vater
• Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction
• Gallstones