Sphincter of Oddi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids sphincter of Oddi |
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| Interior of the descending portion of the duodenum, showing bile papilla | |
| Latin | m. sphincter ampullae |
The sphincter of Oddi (say: SFINK-ter of OD-ee) is a special muscle that acts like a gate. It's found in some animals, including humans. This muscle controls the flow of important liquids for digestion, like bile and pancreatic juice. These liquids travel from the ampulla of Vater into the second part of your duodenum (which is the first part of your small intestine).
This sphincter is named after Ruggero Oddi, an Italian scientist who studied it. A special body chemical helps the sphincter of Oddi open up when it's time for the digestive juices to flow.
Contents
What is the Sphincter of Oddi?
The sphincter of Oddi, often called the SO, is a small, ring-shaped muscle. Think of it like a tiny valve or a gatekeeper. Its main job is to control when and how much bile and pancreatic juice enter your small intestine.
Why is it Important?
Your body needs bile and pancreatic juice to break down food properly.
- Bile is made in your liver and stored in your gallbladder. It helps break down fats.
- Pancreatic juice comes from your pancreas. It contains enzymes that help digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
If these juices flow into your intestine at the wrong time or in the wrong amount, it can cause problems with digestion. The sphincter of Oddi makes sure they are released exactly when your body needs them.
Where is it Located?
The sphincter of Oddi is found where the main bile duct and the pancreatic duct join together. This combined duct then opens into the duodenum, which is the very first section of your small intestine, right after your stomach. It's a key spot in your digestive system!
How Does it Work?
This muscle can tighten (contract) or relax.
- When it contracts, it closes the opening, stopping the flow of bile and pancreatic juice. This happens when you're not eating, so the juices can be stored.
- When it relaxes, it opens the passage, allowing the juices to flow into your duodenum. This usually happens when you eat, especially fatty foods, because your body needs help digesting them.
Special signals from your body, including hormones, tell the sphincter of Oddi when to open and close.
See also
In Spanish: Esfínter de Oddi para niños
