Vessel
Superior mesenteric artery
Anterior aortic branch supplying the midgut territory
High-yield
The third duodenal part and left renal vein lie behind its proximal course. These relations explain two different compression syndromes involving the aortomesenteric interval.
Overview
The SMA leaves the aorta below the celiac trunk and enters the small-bowel mesentery. Its branches supply much of the small intestine and right colon, extending toward the proximal transverse colon.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually arises from the anterior abdominal aorta near L1.
- Course
- Passes anterior to the third duodenal part and continues between layers of the mesentery.
- Branches
- Inferior pancreaticoduodenal, jejunal, ileal, ileocolic, middle-colic and variably right-colic branches.
- Supplies
- Supplies distal duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, ascending colon and much of the proximal transverse colon.
Clinical correlation
SMA occlusion can cause acute intestinal ischemia. Separately, a narrowed interval between SMA and aorta can compress the third duodenal part and obstruct it in SMA syndrome.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the superior mesenteric artery originate?
Usually arises from the anterior abdominal aorta near L1.
What does the superior mesenteric artery supply?
Supplies distal duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, ascending colon and much of the proximal transverse colon.
What are the branches of the superior mesenteric artery?
Inferior pancreaticoduodenal, jejunal, ileal, ileocolic, middle-colic and variably right-colic branches.
What is the course of the superior mesenteric artery?
Passes anterior to the third duodenal part and continues between layers of the mesentery.