During a Whipple's procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), the surgeon must divide the uncinate process of the pancreas. Which major vessel runs in the groove between the uncinate process of the pancreas and the body of the pancreas, making this dissection hazardous?

• A Portal vein
• B Superior mesenteric artery and vein (SMA/SMV) ✓
• C Inferior mesenteric vein
• D Splenic vein

Explanation

The uncinate process of the pancreas is the hooked extension of the head that passes posterior to the superior mesenteric vessels (SMA and SMV). The SMA/SMV groove — the 'tunnel' between the uncinate process and the main pancreatic body — is the critical dissection plane in pancreaticoduodenectomy. Injury to the SMA in particular is a life-threatening complication. The portal vein forms from SMV and splenic vein confluence and is also in proximity but more superior. The uncinate process embryologically derives from the ventral pancreatic bud.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.