horizontal duodenum

anatomy

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

The horizontal duodenum is one of the four segments of the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. It receives partially digested food from the stomach and begins nutrient absorption. The horizontal duodenum, situated between the liver, pancreas, and major blood vessels, can be compressed in severely thin individuals, potentially causing pain, nausea, and vomiting. While primary cancer of the duodenum is rare, benign tumors and cancers of nearby organs like the pancreas or bile duct can affect it. Inflammation of the duodenum, known as duodenitis, is often caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and can lead to peptic ulcers.12

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duodenum
The horizontal duodenum, because of its location between the liver, pancreas, and major blood vessels, can become compressed by those structures in people who are severely thin, requiring surgical release to eliminate painful duodenal dilatation, nausea, and vomiting.
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The horizontal duodenum, because of its location between the liver, pancreas, and major blood vessels, can become compressed by those structures in people who are severely thin, requiring surgical release to eliminate painful duodenal dilatation, nausea, and vomiting.
Read More