Colic artery

The colic arteries, branches of the abdominal aorta, supply blood to the colon.

The colic arteries are branches of the abdominal aorta that supply blood to the colon. There are three main colic arteries: the superior, middle, and inferior colic arteries.

Superior Mesenteric Artery

The superior mesenteric artery arises from the anterior surface of the abdominal aorta, supplying the small intestine and the proximal part of the colon. It gives rise to several branches, including the ileocolic artery, right colic artery, and the middle colic artery.

Middle Colic Artery

The middle colic artery is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery. It supplies the transverse colon, running to the right and then to the left, giving off branches to both sides of the colon.

Inferior Mesenteric Artery

The inferior mesenteric artery is the third main branch of the abdominal aorta, supplying the distal part of the colon. It gives rise to the left colic artery and the sigmoid arteries.

Clinical Significance

Knowledge of the colic arteries is crucial in surgeries involving the colon, such as colectomy and colon resection. Variations in the anatomy of these arteries can lead to complications if not properly identified.

See Also

• Celiac artery
• Mesenteric ischemia
• Abdominal aorta

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