Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA)

VESSEL PATHWAY

The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is a direct branch off of the aorta.

Aorta → SMA

The superior mesenteric artery, and its important branches (source)
The superior mesenteric artery, and its important branches (source)
 

Some important branches of the SMA include:

  1. Inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery
  2. Intestinal arteries
  3. Ileocolic artery
  4. Right colic artery
  5. Middle colic artery
FUNCTION

The SMA is responsible for perfusing much of the large intestine as well as the jejunum and ileum.

CAUSES OF INJURY

Atherosclerosis of the SMA can occur.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF INJURY

Ischemic colitis can be a common complication of atherosclerosis of this vessel. Patients can preset with:

  • Pain after eating can occur due to improper perfusion of the bowel (post-pradinal angina). This can lead to weight loss in patients.
  • Bloody diarrhea can be caused by this disease process.
  • Abdominal pain can be present as well
  • Anorexia/nausea/vomiting
 
Page updated: 06.12.2016