Rectal artery

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Rectal Artery

The rectal arteries, from Gray's Anatomy.

The Rectal Artery is a branch of the Inferior Mesenteric Artery that supplies blood to the rectum and the upper part of the anus. There are usually three rectal arteries: the superior, middle, and inferior rectal arteries.

Superior Rectal Artery[edit | edit source]

The Superior Rectal Artery is the continuation of the inferior mesenteric artery. It descends into the pelvis to reach the rectum and then divides into two branches that descend on either side of the rectum.

Middle Rectal Artery[edit | edit source]

The Middle Rectal Artery arises from the Internal Iliac Artery. It crosses the ischiorectal fossa to reach the rectum, supplying the lower part of the rectum and the upper part of the anus.

Inferior Rectal Artery[edit | edit source]

The Inferior Rectal Artery is a branch of the Internal Pudendal Artery. It crosses the ischiorectal fossa, supplying the lower part of the rectum and the upper part of the anus.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Knowledge of the rectal arteries is important in surgical procedures involving the rectum and anus, such as Hemorrhoidectomy and Rectal Prolapse repair.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD