The ampulla of Vater, also called the hepatopancreatic ampulla, is the point where the common bile duct and the main pancreatic duct merge and drain their contents into the second part of the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine. On ultrasound, this structure can sometimes be visualized when the common bile duct is traced distally, particularly if it is dilated. Blockage at the ampulla of Vater, whether from a gallstone, tumor, or inflammation, can cause both the bile duct and pancreatic duct to dilate, a finding sonographers should recognize and report. Tumors of the ampulla, called ampullary carcinomas, are an important cause of obstructive jaundice.
Sonography Term