Gastric artery

Gastric artery

The celiac artery and its branches; the stomach has been raised and the peritoneum removed. (Gastric arteries labeled at center top.)

The Gastric artery is a branch of the celiac artery. It is responsible for supplying blood to the stomach. There are several types of gastric arteries, including the left gastric artery, right gastric artery, and short gastric arteries.

Structure

The left gastric artery arises from the celiac artery and runs along the lesser curvature of the stomach. The right gastric artery is a branch of the hepatic artery and also runs along the lesser curvature, meeting the left gastric artery. The short gastric arteries are branches of the splenic artery and supply the upper part of the greater curvature of the stomach.

Function

The gastric arteries supply blood to the stomach, contributing to the process of digestion. They deliver oxygenated blood and nutrients to the stomach tissues, enabling them to produce stomach acid and digestive enzymes.

Clinical significance

Damage to the gastric arteries can result in gastric bleeding, which can be a life-threatening condition. In addition, gastric artery aneurysms, although rare, can also occur and may require surgical intervention.

See also

• Celiac artery
• Stomach
• Digestion