Duodenum - what is it and why do we need it? Why is this small (20-25 cm) interval of the intestine given a special name? Because it has a special purpose✔️ The duodenum is connected to the pancreas and gallbladder, where a special secret is produced. This connection occurs due to the ducts with this secret that exit into the intestinal cavity through small "papillae". Bile from the gallbladder emulsifies fats - separates large fat droplets into smaller ones to facilitate their digestion. The secretion from the pancreas also contains enzymes that process proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.