Learning Modules - Medical Gross Anatomy |
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Before looking at the development of the gut, let's consider the basic terminology of the abdominal viscera. The digestive tract begins at the oral cavity, which opens posteriorly into the pharynx, the common food/air tube leading to both larynx and esophagus. The esophagus passes through the lower neck, through the chest, and then pierces the diaphragm at the esophageal hiatus to empty into the stomach. The stomach empties into the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. The head of the pancreas lies in the G-shape of the duodenum and it drains its digestive juices into the duodenum. The liver lies superior to and to the right of the stomach. The bile duct, which drains the liver, also drains into the duodenum. The gallbladder is a reservoir in the biliary tract. |
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