What are the different parts of pancreas called?
- Head: The head of the pancreas is the widest part and is located in the upper right abdomen, just below the liver.
- Body: The body of the pancreas is the middle section and is located behind the stomach.
- Tail: The tail of the pancreas is the thinnest part and is located in the upper left abdomen, near the spleen.
In addition to these three main parts, the pancreas also has several other smaller structures:
- Islets of Langerhans: The islets of Langerhans are small clusters of cells that produce hormones, including insulin and glucagon, which help control blood sugar levels.
- Pancreatic ducts: The pancreatic ducts are small tubes that carry digestive enzymes and other substances from the pancreas to the small intestine.
- Ampulla of Vater: The ampulla of Vater is a small opening where the pancreatic ducts and the common bile duct meet before entering the small intestine.
- Sphincter of Oddi: The sphincter of Oddi is a muscle that controls the flow of pancreatic juices and bile into the small intestine.