ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Anatomical Structure

The pancreas is typically divided into five parts:
1.
Head – the widest part of the pancreas. It lies within the Cshaped curve created by the duodenum and is connected
to it by connective tissue.
2.
Uncinate process – a projection arising from the lower part of
the head and extending medially to lie beneath the body of
the pancreas. It lies posterior to the superior mesenteric
vessels.
3.
Neck – located between the head and the body of the
pancreas. It overlies the superior mesenteric vessels which
form a groove in its posterior aspect.
4.
Body – centrally located, crossing the midline of the human
body to lie behind the stomach and to the left of the superior
mesenteric vessels.
5.
Tail – the left end of the pancreas that lies within close
proximity to the hilum of the spleen. It is contained within the
splenorenal ligament with the splenic vessels. This is the only
part of the pancreas that is intraperitoneal.
Duct System
Anatomical relations of the pancreas
Arterial Supply
Venous Drainage
Lymphatic drainage
Histology
Pancreatic Endocrine Enzymes
Pancreatic Exocrine Enzymes
Diagnostic methods (Investigations)

Serum Markers
Amylase, lipase, trypsinogen, and elastase
CA 19.9 (Tumor Marker)
•
Lundh meal test

Ultrasound

EUS

CECT Scan

MRCP

ERCP
CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES

Cystic fibrosis

Pancreas divisum

Annular pancreas

Ectopic pancreas

Congenital cystic disease of the pancreas
PANCREATITIS

Acute and chronic
Ranson and Glasgow scoring systems
CARCINOMA OF THE PANCREAS
Whipple procedure
(PANCREATODUODENECTOMY)
complications

Postoperative pancreatic fistula

Postoperative Hemorrhage

Infection

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE)

Pancreatic Insufficiency

Pancreatic Abscesses

Pancreatic ascites

Pancreatic effusion

Pseudocyst

Biliary anastomotic leaks

Diabetic Control Issues

Deep Vein Thrombosis and
Pulmonary Embolism