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Pancreatic Physiology and Pathophysiology Video
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Video at a Glance
- The pancreas is a small organ in the epigastric area of the retroperitoneal space tucked into the curve of the duodenum.
- The main pancreatic duct is the duct of Wirsung. It drains into the duodenum at the ampulla of Vater.
- Pancreatic fluid has a high bicarbonate concentration, and it contains lipases that break down lipids, amylases that break down starches, and proteases.
- The most common types of pancreatitis are caused by alcohol abuse (65%) and gall stones (20%).
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