Human Anatomy - Lab 39 Step 3

Laboratory 39. Intestines and Pancreas
Step 3. Branches of Superior Mesenteric Artery

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The superior mesenteric artery gives off several named branches (Figure 39.1). They include the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery, middle colic artery, right colic artery, ileocolic artery and intestinal arteries.

The middle colic artery divides within the transverse mesocolon into a right branch and a left branch. Branches of these arteries supply the proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon.

The ascending branch and descending branch of the right colic artery supply the ascending colon.

Finally, the ileocolic artery, the terminal branch of the superior mesenteric artery, divides into the appendicular artery, anterior cecal artery, and posterior cecal artery. These arteries, together with the small branches to the ileum and ascending colon, supply the terminal portion of the ileum, cecum, vermiform appendix, and proximal part of the ascending colon.

Links and References:
Grant's: 2.78, 2.74
Netter: 287
Rohen/Yokochi: 289, 290