Superior mesenteric vessels

The Superior Mesenteric Vessels are a group of blood vessels that supply the small intestine and part of the large intestine. They are part of the abdominal aorta and are essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system.

The superior mesenteric artery and its branches. (Superior mesenteric artery is labeled at right center.)

Anatomy

The superior mesenteric vessels consist of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the superior mesenteric vein (SMV).

Superior Mesenteric Artery

The superior mesenteric artery arises from the anterior surface of the abdominal aorta, just inferior to the origin of the celiac trunk. It travels inferiorly in the abdominal cavity, supplying blood to the midgut structures, which include the distal half of the duodenum, the jejunum, ileum, cecum, appendix, ascending colon, and the proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon.

Superior Mesenteric Vein

The superior mesenteric vein is a blood vessel that drains blood from the small intestine (jejunum and ileum), and portions of the large intestine (the ascending colon and the transverse colon). It is located to the right of the superior mesenteric artery.

Clinical Significance

The superior mesenteric vessels are of clinical importance due to their role in supplying blood to the intestines. Conditions such as superior mesenteric artery syndrome and mesenteric ischemia can occur if these vessels become compressed or blocked.

See Also

• Inferior mesenteric artery
• Inferior mesenteric vein
• Celiac artery
• Celiac vein