What is the narrow part of the stomach that leads to the duodenum called?

The narrow part of the stomach that leads to the duodenum is identified as the pylorus. This region serves a crucial role in the digestive process as it regulates the passage of partially digested food, known as chyme, from the stomach into the duodenum, which is the first segment of the small intestine.

The pylorus contains the pyloric sphincter, a muscular valve that ensures the chyme is released in a controlled manner, preventing backflow and controlling the flow of food into the duodenum. This regulation is vital for effective digestion and nutrient absorption.

The cardia refers to the area surrounding the opening of the esophagus into the stomach, while the fundus is the upper portion of the stomach that stores undigested food and gases. The fundic antrum is part of the stomach that connects to the pylorus, but it does not directly describe the narrow portion leading to the duodenum. Therefore, the term pylorus is the most accurate description of the narrow part of the stomach that leads to the duodenum.