COMMON DUCT Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "common duct" refers to a vital anatomical structure found within the human body, specifically in the field of anatomy and medicine. Commonly known as the common bile duct (CBD), it is a duct that plays a crucial role in the digestive system. The common duct is responsible for transporting bile, a yellowish-green fluid produced by the liver, to the small intestine, where it aids in the breakdown and absorption of fats.
The common duct is created by the combination of two other ducts, namely the cystic duct and the common hepatic duct. The cystic duct, originating from the gallbladder, and the common hepatic duct, originating from the liver, merge to form the common bile duct. It runs through the hepatoduodenal ligament, passing behind the first part of the duodenum (the initial segment of the small intestine) before joining the pancreatic duct to form the hepatopancreatic ampulla, also known as the ampulla of Vater. This ampulla then opens into the second part of the duodenum, specifically at the major duodenal papilla.
The common duct is a vital component of the biliary system as it serves as a conduit for bile flow. Any obstruction or dysfunction in this duct can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including gallstones, obstructive jaundice, or even pancreatitis. Medical experts often perform imaging tests, such as ultrasound or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), to assess the common duct's condition and diagnose any abnormalities that may require further medical intervention.
Common Misspellings for COMMON DUCT
- xommon duct
- vommon duct
- fommon duct
- dommon duct
- cimmon duct
- ckmmon duct
- clmmon duct
- cpmmon duct
- c0mmon duct
- c9mmon duct
- conmon duct
- cokmon duct
- cojmon duct
- comnon duct
- comkon duct
- comjon duct
- commin duct
- commkn duct
- commln duct
- commpn duct
Etymology of COMMON DUCT
The word "common duct" is a medical term used to describe the combination of the common bile duct and the pancreatic duct, which both unite before emptying into the small intestine.
In terms of etymology, the word "common" originates from the Latin word "communis", which means "shared" or "joint". It refers to something that is shared by multiple parties or parts. In the context of the common duct, it indicates that the bile duct and the pancreatic duct share a single passage that leads to the small intestine.
The word "duct" comes from the Latin word "ductus", which translates to "a leading or conveying". It refers to a tube-like structure that carries fluids or other substances within the body.
Therefore, when combined, the term "common duct" reflects the anatomical structure of the bile duct and pancreatic duct merging together to form a single tube-like conduit.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
