Anatomy of the Abdominal Aorta and its Branches

Branches of the Superior Mesenteric Artery and Their Clinical Significance

The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is a major branch of the abdominal aorta that supplies blood to the midgut. Understanding its anatomy and clinical significance is essential for medical professionals.

Major Branches of the Superior Mesenteric Artery

• Inferior Pancreaticoduodenal Artery: Supplies the pancreas and duodenum.
• Jejunal and Ileal Arteries: Provides blood to the small intestine.
• Middle Colic Artery: Supplies the transverse colon.
• Right Colic Artery: Supplies the ascending colon.
• Ileocolic Artery: Provides blood to the cecum, appendix, and ileum.

Clinical Significance

The SMA is crucial for intestinal perfusion, and conditions like mesenteric ischemia can arise from arterial obstruction. Variations in SMA anatomy may affect surgical approaches in gastrointestinal procedures.