Superior epigastric artery
- 1 min read
- 2 chapters
Related on Lably
Through Vein
Structure
Origin
The superior epigastric artery arises from the internal thoracic artery (referred to as the internal mammary artery in the accompanying diagram).
Course and relations
The superior epigastric artery pierces the diaphragm to enter the rectus sheath and descend upon the deep surface of the rectus abdominis.
Along its course, it is accompanied by a similarly named vein, the superior epigastric vein.
Anastomoses
It anastomoses with the inferior epigastric artery within the rectus abdominis muscle at the umbilicus.
Distribution
Where it anastomoses, the superior epigastric artery supplies the anterior part of the abdominal wall, upper rectus abdominis muscle, and some of the diaphragm.
Sign in to keep reading
One more chapter is free with a Lably account.
Collateralization in disease
Vascular disease
The superior epigastric arteries, inferior epigastric arteries, internal thoracic arteries and left subclavian artery and right subclavian artery / brachiocephalic are collateral vessels to the thoracic aorta and abdominal aorta. If the abdominal aorta develops a significant stenosis and/or blockage (as may be caused by atherosclerosis), this collateral pathway may develop sufficiently, over time, to supply blood to the lower limbs.
Coarctation of the aorta
A congenitally narrowed aorta, due to coarctation, is often associated with a significant enlargement of the internal thoracic and epigastric arteries.