Jejunal arteries

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Jejunal arteries

The jejunal arteries are a group of arteries that supply blood to the jejunum, which is a part of the small intestine. These arteries are branches of the superior mesenteric artery, which is a major artery in the abdominal cavity.

Anatomy

The jejunal arteries arise from the left side of the superior mesenteric artery, which itself is a branch of the abdominal aorta. The superior mesenteric artery originates just below the celiac trunk and supplies blood to most of the small intestine and part of the large intestine.

The jejunal arteries typically number between 5 and 8 and form a series of arcades, or loops, as they approach the jejunum. These arcades give rise to smaller branches known as vasa recta, which directly supply the jejunal wall.

Function

The primary function of the jejunal arteries is to provide oxygenated blood to the jejunum. The jejunum is responsible for the majority of nutrient absorption in the small intestine, and an adequate blood supply is crucial for its function.

Clinical Significance

Compromise of the blood flow through the jejunal arteries can lead to ischemia of the jejunum, which can result in severe abdominal pain and potentially life-threatening conditions such as mesenteric ischemia. Conditions such as atherosclerosis can affect these arteries and impair blood flow.

Related Structures

• Superior mesenteric artery
• Abdominal aorta
• Jejunum
• Vasa recta
• Small intestine

See Also

• Mesenteric arteries
• Intestinal blood supply
• Abdominal cavity