Vessel
Gastroduodenal artery
Artery behind the proximal duodenum
High-yield
A posterior duodenal ulcer can reach this artery and cause substantial bleeding. Its pancreaticoduodenal branches also connect celiac and superior mesenteric territories.
Overview
The gastroduodenal artery links the hepatic arterial tree to the pancreaticoduodenal and greater-curvature networks. It descends behind the first duodenal part, a relationship that gives the vessel particular clinical importance.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually branches from the common hepatic artery near the proximal duodenum.
- Course
- Descends posterior to the first duodenal part and near the pancreatic head/neck region.
- Branches
- Gives superior pancreaticoduodenal branches, the right gastro-omental artery and variable small duodenal branches.
- Supplies
- Supplies the proximal duodenum, pancreatic head, pyloric region and part of the greater-curvature network.
- Drains to
- Venous return from these territories reaches the superior mesenteric and portal systems through corresponding tributaries.
Clinical correlation
Ulcer-related bleeding is a possible consequence of the vessel's close relation to the duodenal wall, not an inevitable feature of every posterior ulcer. Pancreaticoduodenal connections can also carry collateral flow when proximal arterial supply is reduced.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the gastroduodenal artery originate?
Usually branches from the common hepatic artery near the proximal duodenum.
What does the gastroduodenal artery supply?
Supplies the proximal duodenum, pancreatic head, pyloric region and part of the greater-curvature network.
Where does the gastroduodenal artery drain to?
Venous return from these territories reaches the superior mesenteric and portal systems through corresponding tributaries.
What are the branches of the gastroduodenal artery?
Branches of the gastroduodenal artery include the gives superior pancreaticoduodenal branches, the right gastro-omental artery and variable small duodenal branches.