Ductus pancreaticus accessorius, also known as the accessory pancreatic duct, is a small duct found in the human body that plays a crucial role in the exocrine function of the pancreas. This duct can be found in addition to the main pancreatic duct, known as the duct of Wirsung, and is often referred to as the "secondary" pancreatic duct.
The ductus pancreaticus accessorius originates from the upper part of the pancreas and usually joins the main pancreatic duct before it empties into the duodenum. However, in some cases, it may have its own separate opening, varying in location and size between individuals.
The function of the ductus pancreaticus accessorius is to transport pancreatic juices from the exocrine cells of the pancreas to the small intestine. These secretions play a vital role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, as they contain enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases, which are responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, respectively.
The identification and assessment of the ductus pancreaticus accessorius are important in the field of medicine, as its presence and anatomy can have implications on the diagnosis and treatment of various pancreatic pathologies, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic duct obstruction. Imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), may be used to visualize this duct and evaluate its characteristics.
