Superior mesenteric artery (Arteria mesenterica superior)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
Arises from the abdominal aorta at L1 behind the neck of the pancreas, crossing anterior to the third duodenal segment to supply the entire midgut from lower duodenum to splenic flexure.
Clinical notes
Acute embolic occlusion produces catastrophic acute mesenteric ischemia requiring emergent revascularization; compression of the duodenum in the aortomesenteric angle causes Wilkie's (SMA) syndrome.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Superior mesenteric artery?
Arises from the abdominal aorta at L1 behind the neck of the pancreas, crossing anterior to the third duodenal segment to supply the entire midgut from lower duodenum to splenic flexure.
Why is the Superior mesenteric artery clinically important?
Acute embolic occlusion produces catastrophic acute mesenteric ischemia requiring emergent revascularization; compression of the duodenum in the aortomesenteric angle causes Wilkie's (SMA) syndrome.
Source & license
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