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AnatomyAbdomenStomachPyloric sphincter
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AnatomyAbdomenStomachPyloric sphincter

Pyloric sphincter

Author: Nicola McLaren, MSc • Reviewer: Dimitrios Mytilinaios, MD, PhD
Last reviewed: November 22, 2023
Reading time: 1 minute

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Pyloric sphincter
Sphincter pylori
1/7
Synonyms: none

The distal opening of the stomach, into the small intestine, is called the pyloric orifice. Movement of partially digested food (chyme) through the pyloric orifice is controlled by a valve, the pyloric sphincter.

The pyloric sphincter is formed by a thick circular layer of smooth muscle. Its activity is under autonomic nervous system control. Relaxation of the pyloric sphincter to allow emptying of the stomach contents into the duodenum occurs by action of the parasympathetic nervous system (Cranial nerve 10: Vagus nerve). Constriction of the pylorus and its sphincter is controlled by sympathetic innervation from the celiac ganglion (greater and lesser splanchnic nerves). The pylorus and pyloric sphincter receive blood supply from the gastric and pyloric arteries.

Terminology English: Pyloric sphincter
Latin: Sphincter pylori
Definition and function Acts as a valve between the stomach and duodenum. Controls the movement of partially digested food from the stomach into the small intestine.

Test your knowledge about the structure of the stomach with this interactive quiz.

Learn more about the anatomy of the stomach with this study unit:

Structure of the stomach Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.

Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. (2017). Clinically oriented anatomy (8th ed.). Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy (41st ed.). Edinburgh: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone.

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