Duodenal anomalies and the ampulla of Vater

The results of the surgical correction of congenital duodenal anomalies in infants free of severe prematurity, mongolism or other intestinal anomalies are most favorable. Several uncommon defects involving the second part of the duodenum, which required special attention to the anatomic proximity of the ampulla of Vater and the terminal portion of the common bile ducts have been encountered. The recognition of this intimate relationship may prevent inadvertent injuries to these structures, further improving the results of operative procedures for these difficult congenital malformations.