The anatomical composition of the pancreas includes three components: the head, tail and body. Its weight is about 80 grams, and the length is from 18 to 23 centimeters. It belongs to the section of lobular organs and has a parenchymal structure.
Anatomy of the pancreas of a person is specific, which is characterized by its special structure. The protective environment of the organ is formed by a strong connective tissue, the sprouts of which divide the body of the vital organ into lobules. The fractional part forms the main part of the excretory duct. The duct itself, in turn, is formed by a glandular tissue.
In its anatomy, the exocrine and endocrine parts are also distinguished. The endocrine segment consists of formations called the islets of Langerhans. These elements are structured clusters of cellular formations on the basis of organic materials, which are surrounded by capillary nets. The exocrine part is formed by the acinus and is a structured protein gland of the alveolar-tubular type. Conical cells of the acinus are part of the basal membrane and have a pronounced polarity.
Pancreatic physiology
The main physiological function of the body is the production of gastric juice, which is necessary for the qualitative processing of intestinal contents. The physiology of the organ is quite specific and largely depends on the activity of its secretion, regulated by two ways: humoral and neural-reflex.
The stimulation of exocrine cells is based on the symbiosis of pancreatic juice and gastrointestinal hormones. The secretion of juice begins a few minutes after the beginning of food intake and is due to the peculiarity of the pancreas, associated with its reflex excitement due to the receptors of the oral cavity. After that, the contents of the stomach reacts with enzymes produced in the duodenum, resulting in the release of two types of hormones: secretin and cholecystokinin. Developed hormones are the main regulators of secretion mechanisms.
Acinus plays an important role in the anatomy and physiology of the pancreas, thanks to which the production of important proenzymes stabilizing the work of the organ under conditions of increased stress occurs.
Topographic anatomy of the pancreas
The pancreas is located in the cavity behind the peritoneum and is considered the most reliably fixed organ of the abdominal cavity. Topographical anatomy of the gland depends on the position in which the person is. If it is in a recumbent position, then it is displaced under the stomach. In other cases, it is located behind the stomach, closer to the back. Determination of the exact location of the pancreas in an adult is possible only with the use of special fluoroscopic equipment in clinical settings.
The projection location of the pancreas is as follows:
- location of the head: 1st - 3rd vertebra of the lumbar region;
- body: 1st vertebra of lumbar region;
- of the tail: one vertebra above the body.
There are several points of the vascular connection between the tail and the spleen, which ensure the transfer of blood and lymph. In rare cases, next to the main pancreas, there is an additional one. There is no communication between the two organs.
Anatomico-physiological features of the pancreas
The main feature of the anatomical and physiological structure of the gland lies in the fact that acinar cells in the process of their interaction form special lobules, which, in turn, synthesize large lobes based on connective tissue. Acinus generates special proenzymes that enter the duct system and ensure the uninterrupted operation of the organ.
Anatomico-physiological features of the pancreas are clearly visible by microscopic examination of the network of its lymphatic vessels. Lymph, according to the vessels, is transferred to the gallbladder and duodenum. Processes of continuous synthesis and regeneration are an integral part of stable operation. In addition, the body periodically produces extrusion, capable of reaching under the influence of certain factors of high intensity.
Another important feature of the anatomy of the pancreas is its location. The organ is behind the peritoneum, which contributes to its qualitative protection from adverse external influences on the human body and reliable communication with other organs.