Vessel
Jejunal and ileal arteries
Mesenteric branches forming small-bowel arterial loops
High-yield
Jejunum usually has fewer arcade tiers and longer vasa recta; ileum usually has more tiers and shorter straight vessels. These are regional tendencies rather than absolute borders.
Overview
Jejunal and ileal branches leave the superior mesenteric artery and join one another within the mesentery. Their arcades give rise to vasa recta, which approach the bowel at its mesenteric attachment and distribute branches around its wall.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually arise along the left side of the superior mesenteric artery.
- Course
- Travel between mesenteric layers, forming communicating arcades before approaching the bowel as straight vessels.
- Branches
- Arcades produce vasa recta that reach the mesenteric side and branch around the intestinal wall.
- Supplies
- Supply the jejunum and ileum.
- Drains to
- Corresponding jejunal and ileal veins collect into the superior mesenteric venous system.
Clinical correlation
Occlusion of mesenteric branches can compromise a bowel segment despite the arterial loops upstream. The extent of injury depends on the level of obstruction and the available collateral circulation.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the jejunal and ileal arteries originate?
Usually arise along the left side of the superior mesenteric artery.
What do the jejunal and ileal arteries supply?
Supply the jejunum and ileum.
Where do the jejunal and ileal arteries drain to?
The jejunal and ileal arteries drain to the corresponding jejunal and ileal veins collect into the superior mesenteric venous system.
What are the branches of the jejunal and ileal arteries?
Branches of the jejunal and ileal arteries include the arcades produce vasa recta that reach the mesenteric side and branch around the intestinal wall.