CHOLEDOCH DUCT Meaning and
Definition
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The choledoch duct is a fundamental anatomical structure found within the human body. Also known as the common bile duct, it is a tubular, duct-like passage that connects the liver and the gallbladder to the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. This duct plays a crucial role in the transportation and regulation of bile, a fluid that is essential for the proper digestion and absorption of fats.
The choledoch duct is responsible for receiving and transporting bile from the liver, where it is produced, and from the gallbladder, where it is stored and concentrated. The duct receives bile through two channels: the hepatic duct, which carries bile from the liver, and the cystic duct, which carries bile from the gallbladder. These two ducts merge to form the choledoch duct, which then empties its contents into the duodenum, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats.
In addition to its transport function, the choledoch duct also has a crucial role in regulating the flow of bile. This is achieved through the action of a sphincter muscle located at the distal end of the duct, called the hepatopancreatic sphincter or the sphincter of Oddi. This sphincter ensures that bile flows into the duodenum when necessary, while preventing its reflux back into the liver and gallbladder when not needed.
Overall, the choledoch duct serves as a vital conduit between the liver, gallbladder, and small intestine, facilitating the proper digestion and absorption of dietary fats. Its functionality is essential for maintaining the balance of bile in the body, ensuring efficient digestion and overall digestive health.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHOLEDOCH DUCT
- choeledochduct
- choldochduct
- cwholedochduct
- choleadochduct
- c holedoch duct
- ch oledoch duct
- cho ledoch duct
- chol edoch duct
- chole doch duct
- choled och duct
- choledo ch duct
- choledoc h duct
- choledoch d uct
- choledoch du ct
- choledoch duc t
Etymology of CHOLEDOCH DUCT
The word "choledoch" originates from the Greek word "kholedokhos" (χοληδοχος), which is derived from "kholedochos" (χοληδοχος) meaning "a channel for bile". "Khole" (χολη) means "bile", and "dokhos" (δοχος) means "channel" or "duct". Therefore, "choledoch" refers to the duct that carries bile from the liver and the gallbladder to the intestine.
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