Vessel
Superior suprarenal arteries
Small branches approaching the adrenal from above
High-yield
The conventional source map is phrenic above, aortic medially and renal below; each source may provide more than one branch.
Overview
The superior suprarenal supply usually comprises several branches from the inferior phrenic artery. These vessels descend to the adrenal capsule and join its subcapsular network. Their number and origin are variable.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually from inferior phrenic arteries, whose own origins may be aortic, celiac or otherwise variable.
- Course
- Descend from the diaphragmatic arterial region onto the superior adrenal capsule.
- Branches
- Small capsular branches join the subcapsular plexus and inward cortical circulation.
- Supplies
- Contributes to cortical and medullary perfusion through communicating adrenal vascular pathways.
- Drains to
- Adrenal venous blood exits mainly through principal suprarenal veins, with accessory outflow possible.
Clinical correlation
Multiple small superior branches contribute to the gland's rich perfusion. Their variation is relevant to interpreting vascular imaging and controlling adrenal-region bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the superior suprarenal arteries originate?
Usually from inferior phrenic arteries, whose own origins may be aortic, celiac or otherwise variable.
What do the superior suprarenal arteries supply?
The superior suprarenal arteries supply the contributes to cortical and medullary perfusion through communicating adrenal vascular pathways.
Where do the superior suprarenal arteries drain to?
The superior suprarenal arteries drain to the adrenal venous blood exits mainly through principal suprarenal veins, with accessory outflow possible.
What are the branches of the superior suprarenal arteries?
Branches of the superior suprarenal arteries include the small capsular branches join the subcapsular plexus and inward cortical circulation.