A systematic study of the vascularisation of the pancreas

The anatomy of the vessels of the pancreas is well known. However, some refinement is necessary in response to new requirements. In this study 40 specimens of pancreas plus duodenum were dissected after injecting the vessels with latex. Arteries and veins were measured and drawn. The origin and course of the vessels and their anastomoses were studied. If the vessels less than 0.5 mm in diameter are disregarded, it is seen that the vascularisation of the head of the pancreas can be systematized. Since the development of very selective arteriography and phlebography, two main types of artery and of vein have been discerned. Charts of the vessels for such an identification have been suggested. The two types of vessel are either terminal or anastomotic. Determination of the type of vessel can be useful: for the localisation of endocrine tumors of the pancreas by selective catheterisation; in making the decision for a limited operative intervention when immediate effective blood supply of the remaining tissue is important.