MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Duodenum

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Duodenum

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition	References

Illustrations

Digestive system

Definition Return to top

The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine. It is located between the stomach and the the middle part of the small intestine, or jejunum.

After foods mix with stomach acid , they move into the duodenum, where they mix with bile from the gallbladder, and digestive juices from the pancreas.

Absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients begins in the duodenum.

References Return to top

Evers BM. Small intestine. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 48.

Update Date: 11/16/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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