Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) Practice Exam

The pyloric sphincter is located at the opening from the stomach into the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. This muscular valve plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of partially digested food, known as chyme, from the stomach into the duodenum. It prevents the backflow of intestinal contents into the stomach and ensures that food moves in the right direction for further digestion and absorption in the small intestine. Understanding the anatomy and function of the pyloric sphincter is essential for recognizing how digestive processes are controlled and how various gastrointestinal conditions may arise.