Where is the pancreas located in the body?

The pancreas is a gland, about six inches long, located in the abdomen. It is shaped like a flat pear and is surrounded by the stomach, small intestine, liver, spleen and gallbladder. The wide end of the pancreas on the right side of the body is called the head.

Is the uncinate part of the pancreas fused to the head?

This is an unusual configuration since the uncinate process usually fuses more completely with the dorsal pancreas adding mass to the head of the pancreas as seen in Figs. 1B and 2. Figure 1B. In this pancreas the uncinate portion is fused to the remainder of the head.

Can a pseudocyst form after a bout of pancreatitis?

Pancreatic pseudocyst: After a bout of pancreatitis, a fluid-filled cavity called a pseudocyst can form. Pseudocysts may resolve spontaneously, or they may need surgical drainage. Islet cell tumor: The hormone-producing cells of the pancreas multiply abnormally, creating a benign or cancerous tumor.

Where does the caudal part of the pancreas come from?

Fusion of the duct systems results in the formation of the main pancreatic duct from the ducts of both dorsal and ventral anlagen. The caudal portion of the head of the pancreas (uncinate) and the major papilla (ampulla of Vater) are derived from the ventral anlage.

Is there an anatomic landmark for the tail of the pancreas?

SMA, superior mesenteric artery. PL, plexus. There is no anatomic landmark for the division between the body and tail of the pancreas although the left border of the aorta is sometimes used to mark the junction (2, 6). Hellman defined the tail as the one fourth of the pancreas from the tip of the tail to the head,…

What is the thin end of the pancreas called?

The thin end of the pancreas on the left side of the body is called the tail. The uncinate process is the part of the gland that bends backwards and underneath the head of the pancreas.

What is the name of the inflammation of the pancreas?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when pancreatic enzyme secretions build up and begin to digest the organ itself. It can occur as acute painful attacks lasting a matter of days, or it may be a chronic condition that progresses over a period of years. Learn more about pancreatitis, its causes, and treatment options.