Duodenojejunal flexure

Duodenojejunal flexure is the junction between the duodenum and the jejunum, two parts of the small intestine. It is a significant anatomical landmark in the human digestive system.

Etymology

The term "duodenojejunal flexure" is derived from the Latin words "duodenum" (meaning "twelve"), "jejunum" (meaning "fasting"), and "flexure" (meaning "bend"). The duodenum is so named because it is approximately twelve finger-breadths in length, while the jejunum is named for its typically empty state following death.

Anatomy

The duodenojejunal flexure is located at the level of the second lumbar vertebra, to the left of the midline. It is supported by the ligament of Treitz, a fibromuscular structure that extends from the right crus of the diaphragm to the fourth part of the duodenum and the duodenojejunal flexure. This ligament plays a crucial role in maintaining the position of the duodenojejunal flexure.

Clinical significance

The location of the duodenojejunal flexure is important in surgical procedures involving the small intestine. Its position can be altered in certain pathological conditions, such as malrotation of the gut, which can lead to life-threatening complications like volvulus or intestinal obstruction.

Related terms

• Duodenum: The first part of the small intestine immediately beyond the stomach.
• Jejunum: The part of the small intestine between the duodenum and ileum.
• Ligament of Treitz: Also known as the suspensory muscle of the duodenum, it is a thin muscle that connects the duodenum to the diaphragm.
• Malrotation: A congenital anomaly of rotation of the midgut (the part of the embryo from which most of the intestines develop), which can cause dangerous complications.
• Volvulus: A condition in which a loop of the intestine twists around itself and the mesentery that supports it, resulting in a bowel obstruction.
• Intestinal obstruction: A blockage that prevents the normal flow of contents through the intestinal tract.

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  Anatomy of the duodenojejunal flexure

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  Illustration of the small intestine

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  Duodenojejunal flexure in relation to surrounding structures

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  Position of the duodenojejunal flexure