Superior mesenteric artery
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middle colic
right colic
intestinal branches (jejunal, ileal)
ileocolic
See also: Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome
In human anatomy, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) arises from the anterior surface of the abdominal aorta, just inferior to the origin of the celiac trunk, and supplies the intestine from the lower part of the duodenum to the left colic flexure and the pancreas.
Contents
[edit] Location and path
It arises anterior to vertebra L1 in an adult. It is usually 1cm lower than the celiac trunk. It initially travels in an anterior/inferior direction, passing behind/under the neck of the pancreas and the splenic vein. Located under this portion of the superior mesenteric artery, between it and the aorta, are the following:
The SMA typically runs to the left of the similarly named vein, the superior mesenteric vein. After passing the neck of the pancreas it starts giving off its branches.
[edit] Branches
The middle, right, and ileocecal branches anastomose with each other to form a marginal artery along the inner border of the colon. This artery is completed by branches of the left colic which is a branch of the inferior mesenteric artery.
[edit] Pathology
[edit] Additional images
The celiac artery and its branches; the stomach has been raised and the peritoneum removed.
Abdominal part of digestive tube and its attachment to the primitive or common mesentery. Human embryo of six weeks.
Posterior abdominal wall, after removal of the peritoneum, showing kidneys, suprarenal capsules, and great vessels.
The anterior surfaces of the kidneys, showing the areas of contact of neighboring viscera.
Front of abdomen, showing surface markings for arteries and inguinal canal.
