Jejunal arteries

Jejunal Arteries

The Jejunal arteries are branches of the superior mesenteric artery that supply the jejunum, a part of the small intestine.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "jejunal" is derived from the Latin word "jejunus", which means "fasting" or "empty". This is because the jejunum was often found to be empty post-mortem.

The jejunal arteries arise from the left side of the superior mesenteric artery, and in their course towards the jejunum, they form a series of arches, known as arterial arcades. These arcades give rise to straight vessels called vasa recta.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the jejunal arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the jejunum, which is the middle section of the small intestine. The jejunum is responsible for the absorption of nutrients from digested food.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Blockage or damage to the jejunal arteries can lead to ischemia or necrosis of the jejunum, which can cause severe abdominal pain and other complications. This condition is often diagnosed through imaging studies such as CT scan or angiography.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Jejunal arteries Resources
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