From the Guidelines
The superior mesenteric artery supplies blood to the midgut, which includes the small intestine (except the proximal duodenum), the ascending colon, and the proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon. This arterial supply is crucial for digestive function as it delivers oxygenated blood to organs responsible for most nutrient absorption and a significant portion of the large intestine. The superior mesenteric artery originates from the anterior surface of the abdominal aorta at the level of the L1 vertebra, just below the celiac trunk, and its major branches include the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery, jejunal and ileal branches, ileocolic artery, right colic artery, and middle colic artery 1. Embryologically, this distribution corresponds to the midgut, which develops from the portion of the primitive gut supplied by the superior mesenteric artery during fetal development. The clinical significance of the superior mesenteric artery is highlighted in cases of mesenteric ischemia, where interruption of blood supply to the intestine can lead to cellular damage, intestinal necrosis, and high mortality rates if left untreated 1. In such cases, prompt diagnosis and intervention, including endovascular techniques or open surgery, are essential to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes 1. Overall, the superior mesenteric artery plays a vital role in maintaining the health and function of the midgut, and its significance extends to the diagnosis and treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders. Key points to consider include:
- The superior mesenteric artery supplies the midgut, including the small intestine, ascending colon, and proximal transverse colon
- Its major branches include the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery, jejunal and ileal branches, ileocolic artery, right colic artery, and middle colic artery
- The artery originates from the abdominal aorta at the level of the L1 vertebra
- Mesenteric ischemia can occur due to interruption of blood supply to the intestine, leading to high mortality rates if left untreated
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention, including endovascular techniques or open surgery, are essential to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes 1.
From the Research
Superior Mesenteric Artery Supply
The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the intestine. The specific areas and organs it supplies include:
- The small intestine (jejunum and ileum)
- The right colon
- The pancreas
- The liver (via the hepatic artery, which branches off from the SMA)
Blood Supply to the Intestine
The SMA is responsible for supplying blood to the majority of the small intestine, as well as the right side of the large intestine. This blood supply is crucial for the proper functioning of the digestive system, as it provides the necessary oxygen and nutrients for the absorption of food.
Clinical Significance
The SMA is also clinically significant, as occlusion or blockage of this artery can lead to acute mesenteric ischemia, a serious condition that can result in bowel necrosis and death 2, 3, 4, 5. Treatment options for acute mesenteric ischemia include surgical intervention, such as embolectomy or bypass, as well as endovascular techniques, such as angioplasty and stenting 2, 3, 5.
Key Points
Some key points to note about the superior mesenteric artery supply include:
- The SMA supplies blood to the small intestine, right colon, pancreas, and liver
- Occlusion of the SMA can lead to acute mesenteric ischemia, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition
- Treatment options for acute mesenteric ischemia include surgical intervention and endovascular techniques
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent bowel necrosis and death 2, 3, 4, 5