Sphincter of Oddi

Sphincter of Oddi

The Sphincter of Oddi is a muscular valve that controls the flow of digestive juices (bile and pancreatic juice) to the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is named after Ruggero Oddi, an Italian anatomist who first described it at the end of the 19th century.

Anatomy

The Sphincter of Oddi is located in the second part of the duodenum, where the bile duct and pancreatic duct join. It is composed of two parts: the sphincter of the bile duct, also known as the sphincter choledochus, and the sphincter of the pancreatic duct, also known as the sphincter pancreaticus.

Function

The primary function of the Sphincter of Oddi is to control the flow of bile and pancreatic juice into the duodenum. It prevents the reflux of duodenal contents into the ducts, and also regulates the release of these juices, which are essential for digestion.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the Sphincter of Oddi can lead to several conditions, including Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, biliary colic, and pancreatitis. These conditions can cause severe abdominal pain and other symptoms, and may require treatment with medication or surgery.

See also

• Bile duct
• Pancreatic duct
• Duodenum

References

Sphincter of Oddi Resources
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