What are the branches of the superior mesenteric artery?
The superior mesenteric artery is a major blood vessel that arises from the abdominal aorta and supplies blood to the small intestine, large intestine, and part of the pancreas. Understanding the branches of this artery is crucial for medical professionals, as any blockage or malformation in these branches can lead to serious complications. In this article, we will explore the various branches of the superior mesenteric artery and their functions.
The superior mesenteric artery has several branches, which include:
1.胰十二指肠动脉 (Pancreaticoduodenal artery)
The pancreaticoduodenal artery is the first branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It further divides into two main branches:
a.胰头动脉 (Common hepatic artery)
The common hepatic artery supplies blood to the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. It is a major blood vessel that arises from the celiac trunk.
b.胰十二指肠上动脉 (Superior pancreaticoduodenal artery)
The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery supplies blood to the duodenum, head of the pancreas, and the first part of the jejunum.
2.空肠动脉 (jejunal artery)
The jejunal artery is the second branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It divides into several smaller branches that supply blood to the jejunum, which is the second part of the small intestine.
3.回肠动脉 (ileal artery)
The ileal artery is the third branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It supplies blood to the ileum, which is the final part of the small intestine.
4.中结肠动脉 (middle colic artery)
The middle colic artery is the fourth branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It supplies blood to the transverse colon, descending colon, and part of the sigmoid colon.
5.右结肠动脉 (right colic artery)
The right colic artery is the fifth branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It supplies blood to the ascending colon and the cecum.
6.回结肠动脉 (ileocolic artery)
The ileocolic artery is the sixth and final branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It supplies blood to the cecum, appendix, and the first part of the ileum.
Understanding the branches of the superior mesenteric artery is essential for diagnosing and treating various conditions, such as mesenteric ischemia, diverticulitis, and abdominal pain. By knowing the blood supply to each part of the gastrointestinal tract, medical professionals can better understand the potential complications and develop appropriate treatment plans.
