Duct of Santorini: An Overview

What is the Duct of Santorini?

Is it a small accessory duct to the gallbladder, an accessory duct to the cystic duct, an accessory duct to the pancreas, or a small opening in the duodenum?

Answer:

The Duct of Santorini, also known as the accessory duct, is a small duct that runs from the pancreas into the duodenum, located above the hepatopancreatic ampulla.

The Duct of Santorini, also known as the accessory duct, is a small duct that runs from the pancreas into the duodenum. It is located approximately 1 inch above the hepatopancreatic ampulla, which is where the common bile duct and the main pancreatic duct join and open into the duodenum. The Duct of Santorini is considered a persistent remnant of pancreatic development.

This small accessory duct plays a role in the drainage of pancreatic secretions into the duodenum. While not as prominent as the main pancreatic duct, the Duct of Santorini serves as an additional pathway for pancreatic fluids to reach the small intestine for digestion.

Overall, the Duct of Santorini is an important structure in the digestive system, contributing to the overall function of the pancreas and the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.