Inferior phrenic arteries

Inferior phrenic arteries are shown in this diagram of the human abdominal aorta and its branches.

The Inferior Phrenic Arteries are small, paired arteries in the human body that supply blood to the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities. They are typically the first or second branches of the abdominal aorta, the largest artery in the abdominal cavity.

Anatomy

The inferior phrenic arteries originate from the front of the abdominal aorta, just below the diaphragm. They ascend to the diaphragm, where they divide into several smaller branches. These branches supply the superior surface of the diaphragm and can also give off esophageal branches to the esophagus.

Variations

There can be variations in the origin of the inferior phrenic arteries. They may arise individually from the aorta or as a common trunk. They may also originate from the celiac artery, renal artery, or superior mesenteric artery.

Clinical Significance

The inferior phrenic arteries can be involved in various medical conditions. They can be a source of collateral circulation in cases of hepatic artery obstruction. They can also supply blood to hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer, making them important in certain interventional radiology procedures.

See Also

• Superior phrenic arteries
• Abdominal aorta
• Diaphragm (anatomy)