What Does Duodenum Mean in Medical Terms?

The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine. It is located between the stomach and the middle part of the small intestine, or jejunum.

What is a duodenum in medical terms?

(DOO-ah-DEE-num) The first part of the small intestine. It connects to the stomach. The duodenum helps to further digest food coming from the stomach.

What is the main function of the duodenum?

The duodenum produces hormones and receives secretions from the liver (bile) and pancreas (pancreatic juice containing digestive enzymes). These various hormones, fluids and enzymes facilitate chemical digestion in the duodenum while also ensuring the acidity of chyme coming from the stomach is neutralised.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.