The duodenum is the portion of the small bowel just beyond the stomach. The first part is called the cap because on x-ray it looks a bit like a cap. Thereafter, the duodenum makes a C-turn going from the right to the left side of the abdomen. Image 1 shows the normal cap with the duodenum continuing through the opening on the right. Image 2 is just beyond this opening showing the duodenum as it makes its C-turn. The slight mound of tissue on the left of Image 3 is the opening from the bile and pancreatic duct. It is through this duct that pancreas and bile juices enter the intestine where they are necessary for normal digestion.