Duodenojejunal flexure
The duodenojejunal flexure or duodenojejunal junction, also known as the angle of Treitz,[1][2] is the border between the duodenum and the jejunum. StructureThe ascending portion of the duodenum ascends on the left side of the aorta, as far as the level of the upper border of the second lumbar vertebra. At this point, it turns abruptly forward to merge with the jejunum, forming the duodenojejunal flexure. This forms the beginning of the jejunum.[3] The duodenojejunal flexure is surrounded by the suspensory muscle of the duodenum.[4]: 274 It is retroperitoneal, so is less mobile than the jejunum that comes after it, helping to stabilise the jejunum.[5] The duodenojejunal flexure lies in front of the left psoas major muscle, the left renal artery, and the left renal vein. It is covered in front, and partly at the sides, by peritoneum continuous with the left portion of the mesentery. Clinical significanceThe ligament of Treitz, a peritoneal fold, from the right crus of diaphragm, is an identification point for the duodenojejunal flexure during abdominal surgery.[6]: 85 Additional images
See alsoReferencesThis article incorporates text in the public domain from page 1170 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)
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