AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which organ is connected by a duct to the duodenum?

1. Gallbladder

2. Liver

3. Pancreas

4. Spleen

The correct answer is: Pancreas

The pancreas is the organ that is connected by a duct to the duodenum through the pancreatic duct. This duct transports digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas, which play a critical role in the digestion of food. The enzymes are released into the duodenum, where they help to break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. While the gallbladder and liver are involved in the digestive process, they primarily contribute bile, which is transported through the common bile duct to the duodenum, but the liver does not directly connect to the duodenum with its own dedicated duct. The spleen, on the other hand, is not connected to the digestive tract and instead plays a role in filtering blood and supporting the immune system. Thus, the pancreas is the correct organ associated with a duct that leads directly into the duodenum, emphasizing its importance in the digestive process.