The pancreas is called the “hidden organ” because it is located deep in the abdomen behind the stomach. It is about six to eight inches long in an adult, and contains thin tubes that join together like the veins of a leaf. The tubes join to form a single opening into the intestine that is located just beyond the stomach. Due to its location deep within the body, access to the pancreas as well as diagnosis of disease can be difficult.
The pancreas is essential to the digestive process in two ways. It produces juices and enzymes that flow through its tubes into the intestine where they mix with food. The enzymes digest fat, protein and carbohydrates so they can be absorbed by the intestine. The pancreas also produces insulin, which is picked up by the blood flowing through the organ. Insulin is important in regulating the amount of sugar or glucose in the blood, which is the body’s main source of energy.
©2006 Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
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