Superior flexure of the duodenum

Upper duodenal flexure

Duodenal flexure is a turn in the upper part of the duodenum that occurs at the border with the jejunum. The superior flexure of the duodenum is located in the upper part of the abdomen, namely in the stomach area. This bend is an important anatomical element, as it affects the movement of food through the intestines and ensures the normal functioning of the digestive system.

Anatomical description

The superior flexure of the duodenum begins at the entrance to the stomach and continues to the junction with the jejunum, where it transitions to the inferior flexure. The upper curve is located at the level of the third lumbar vertebra and has the shape of an arc. The length of the superior bend of the duodenum can vary from 2 to 10 cm.

Functional meaning

The superior flexure plays an important role in the passage of food through the digestive tract. It helps food move from the stomach to the small intestine and prevents it from being retained in the stomach. In addition, the superior flexure of the duodenum ensures the normal movement of bile and pancreatic juice into the intestine.

Diseases associated with the superior flexure of the duodenum

Some diseases may be associated with the superior flexure of the duodenum. For example, inflammation of this area can lead to digestive disorders and the development of intestinal diseases. Other conditions that may be associated with the upper flexure include chronic diarrhea, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Diagnosis and treatment

Various methods, such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging, can be used to diagnose disease associated with the superior duodenal flexure. Treatment may include diet changes, medications, or surgery.

Conclusion

The superior flexure of the duodenum is an important element of the digestive system, which plays an important role in the normal functioning of the digestive tract. However, diseases in this area may cause digestive problems and other disorders.

The superior duodenal flexure is the flexure that is located in the upper part of the duodenum and connects it to the lower part of the stomach. This bend is one of the main anatomical structures of the stomach and plays an important role in digestion.

The duodenal flexure is a bulge that is located at the top of the duodenum. It is formed as a result of narrowing of the muscle tissue of the duodenum and duodenal ducts before entering the stomach. Anatomically, this bend separates the long smooth muscles of the duodenum and intestines.

The superior flexure of the duodenum has three arteries that enter the intestinal wall from the duodenal duct and gather into a single canal called the posterior branch of the left gastric artery. In addition, the superior flexure contains many lymphatic vessels from the abdominal cavity.

This segment of the duodenum is connected to the blood through two channels: the common hepatic artery, which branches off from the right branch of the diaphragm, and the right gastric artery. Turning to the semi-arcuate straight artery and the hepatic plexus, which formed under the right aortic arch, then enters the superior duodenal flexure. The area immediately adjacent to the intestinal mucosa contains two main branches that merge to form the posterior branch of the left gastric branch.