The minor duodenal papilla is a small elevation on the wall of the descending duodenum, about 2 cm above and slightly in front of the major papilla. It marks the opening of the accessory pancreatic duct. It is a remnant of the separate duct system of the embryonic dorsal pancreatic bud.
| Location | Descending part of the duodenum, about 2 cm proximal and slightly anterior to the major duodenal papilla |
|---|---|
| Parts | |
| Nerve Supply | Vagus nerve; Coeliac plexus |
| Blood Supply | Anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Provides an outlet for pancreatic juice from the accessory duct.
In pancreas divisum, where the two embryonic duct systems fail to join, most pancreatic juice must drain through this small opening, which may contribute to recurrent pancreatitis. Endoscopic cutting or stenting of the minor papilla is sometimes used in such cases. Its small size makes it easy to overlook at endoscopy.
Failure of fusion of the dorsal and ventral pancreatic ducts so that most of the gland drains through the minor papilla; usually silent but can be linked to recurrent pancreatitis.
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