Vessel
Ileocolic artery
Superior mesenteric branch serving the ileocecal region
High-yield
The appendicular arterial supply usually comes from the ileocolic system. Its limited collateral supply helps explain susceptibility to ischemia in severe appendiceal inflammation.
Overview
The ileocolic artery runs toward the junction of small and large bowel. Its branches distribute blood to terminal ileum, cecum, appendix and adjacent ascending colon, linking small-bowel and colonic arterial networks.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually a distal right-sided branch of the superior mesenteric artery.
- Course
- Courses down and right toward the ileocecal region along the posterior abdominal wall.
- Branches
- Ileal and colic branches, anterior/posterior cecal branches and the appendicular artery, with variable branching arrangements.
- Supplies
- Terminal ileum, cecum, appendix and the lower ascending colon.
- Drains to
- Corresponding ileocolic venous blood enters the superior mesenteric vein.
Clinical correlation
Cecal volvulus can twist the local mesentery and threaten blood flow as well as obstructing bowel contents. The vascular problem is part of the torsion, not simply a narrowing of the bowel lumen.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the ileocolic artery originate?
Usually a distal right-sided branch of the superior mesenteric artery.
What does the ileocolic artery supply?
The ileocolic artery supplies the terminal ileum, cecum, appendix and the lower ascending colon.
Where does the ileocolic artery drain to?
The ileocolic artery drains to the corresponding ileocolic venous blood enters the superior mesenteric vein.
What are the branches of the ileocolic artery?
Ileal and colic branches, anterior/posterior cecal branches and the appendicular artery, with variable branching arrangements.