Pancreas - Anatomy & Physiology

BACK TO ALIMENTARY - ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

Introduction

The pancreas has exocrine and endocrine functions. The exocrine part secretes pancreatic juice; a solution containing enzymes for carbohydrate, protein and triacylglycerol digestion. Pancreatic juice drains into the small intestine where it is functional. The exocrine part is the larger of the two parts of the pancreas. The endocrine part secretes hormones for the regulation of blood glucose concentration, including insulin, glucagon and somatostatin. The functional units of the exocrine part are the islet of Langerhans.

Structure

Pancreas (Sheep) - Copywright RVC 2008

• Located in the craniodorsal part of the abdomen in close association with the duodenum.
• Divided into three parts; a body and left and right lobes.
  • Generally, the portal vein runs between the left and right lobes. (see species differences.

Species Differences

Carnivore

• Portal vein runs between the left and right lobes.

Ruminant

• Portal vein runs between the left and right lobes.

Horse

• Portal vein perforates the pancreas.

Pig

• Portal vein perforated the pancrea.