Pancreatic digestive juices are carried by which of the following structures to the small intestine?

• A. Cystic duct
• B. Pancreatic duct
• C. Common bile duct
• D. Hepatic portal vein

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the pancreas in digestion: The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and bicarbonate, which are essential for breaking down food in the small intestine.
2. Identify the structure responsible for transporting pancreatic juices: The pancreatic duct is the main structure that carries these digestive juices from the pancreas to the small intestine.
3. Clarify the function of the other options: The cystic duct transports bile from the gallbladder, the common bile duct carries bile to the small intestine, and the hepatic portal vein transports nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract to the liver.
4. Recognize the anatomical connection: The pancreatic duct joins the common bile duct at the hepatopancreatic ampulla (also called the ampulla of Vater), which then empties into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.
5. Conclude the correct answer: Based on the anatomical pathway, the pancreatic duct is the structure that directly carries pancreatic digestive juices to the small intestine.