Right gastroepiploic artery

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== Right Gastroepiploic Artery ==

The right gastroepiploic artery is a blood vessel that supplies blood to the stomach and greater omentum. It is one of the two gastroepiploic arteries, the other being the left gastroepiploic artery.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The right gastroepiploic artery arises from the gastroduodenal artery, which is a branch of the common hepatic artery. It travels along the greater curvature of the stomach, running between the layers of the greater omentum. The artery anastomoses with the left gastroepiploic artery, which originates from the splenic artery.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the right gastroepiploic artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the stomach and the greater omentum. It plays a crucial role in the vascularization of the stomach, contributing to the rich blood supply necessary for the stomach's digestive functions.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The right gastroepiploic artery is often used in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) due to its suitable size and length. It is harvested and grafted to bypass blocked coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle.

In cases of peptic ulcer disease, the right gastroepiploic artery can be involved in bleeding, which may require surgical intervention. Its proximity to the stomach makes it a potential source of hemorrhage in gastric ulcers.