Vessel
Middle colic artery
Mesocolic artery serving much of the transverse colon
High-yield
The left branch links toward the left colic artery near the splenic-flexure watershed. Accessory vessels and variation in origin mean the textbook pattern is not universal.
Overview
The middle colic artery enters the transverse mesocolon from the superior mesenteric arterial system. Its branches spread toward the right and left sides of the transverse colon and join neighboring colic networks.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually arises from the superior mesenteric artery near the lower pancreatic border.
- Course
- Travels within the transverse mesocolon toward the transverse colon.
- Branches
- Commonly divides into right and left branches communicating with adjacent right-colic/ileocolic and left-colic territories.
- Supplies
- Principally supplies the proximal transverse colon, with overlapping and variable distal territory.
- Drains to
- The middle colic venous system usually drains to the superior mesenteric vein, sometimes through a shared trunk.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the middle colic artery originate?
Usually arises from the superior mesenteric artery near the lower pancreatic border.
What does the middle colic artery supply?
The middle colic artery supplies the principally supplies the proximal transverse colon, with overlapping and variable distal territory.
Where does blood from the middle colic artery go?
The middle colic venous system usually drains to the superior mesenteric vein, sometimes through a shared trunk.
What are the branches of the middle colic artery?
Commonly divides into right and left branches communicating with adjacent right-colic/ileocolic and left-colic territories.