Vessel
Superior mesenteric artery
Artery of the midgut
High-yield
Supplies midgut (duodenum distal to the ampulla → proximal 2/3 transverse colon). SMA syndrome compresses the third part of the duodenum.
Overview
An unpaired branch of the abdominal aorta at L1 that supplies the midgut, from the distal duodenum to the proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Abdominal aorta (L1)
- Branches / tributaries
- Inferior pancreaticoduodenal; Jejunal and ileal arteries; Ileocolic; Right colic; Middle colic arteries
- Supplies
- Midgut: distal duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, ascending colon, and proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon
- Course
- Arises from the anterior aorta at L1, passing anterior to the third part of the duodenum
Frequently asked questions
Where does the superior mesenteric artery originate?
The superior mesenteric artery arises from the abdominal aorta (L1).
What does the superior mesenteric artery supply?
Midgut: distal duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, ascending colon, and proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon.
What are the branches of the superior mesenteric artery?
Branches of the superior mesenteric artery include the inferior pancreaticoduodenal; Jejunal and ileal arteries; Ileocolic; Right colic; Middle colic arteries.
What is the course of the superior mesenteric artery?
Arises from the anterior aorta at L1, passing anterior to the third part of the duodenum.