The celiac trunk, also known as the celiac artery, is a major blood vessel in the upper abdomen. It is a major branch of the abdominal aorta, the body’s largest artery within the abdominal region. It plays a central role in delivering oxygen-rich blood to several digestive organs. It ensures a focused blood supply to organs active in early digestion.
Where the Celiac Trunk Is Located
The celiac trunk originates from the anterior abdominal aorta at the level of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) or the intervertebral disc between T12 and the first lumbar vertebra (L1), just as the aorta passes through the diaphragm. It is a short vessel, typically 1.25 to 2 centimeters in length, positioned below the rib cage and near the spine, in the upper abdominal cavity. It extends forward and slightly downward before dividing into its main branches. The celiac trunk is covered by the lesser omentum, a fold of peritoneum, and is surrounded by celiac lymph nodes at its origin.
Its Major Branches and What They Supply
The celiac trunk typically divides into three main arterial branches: the left gastric artery, the splenic artery, and the common hepatic artery. Each branch supplies specific organs within the upper digestive system. This trifurcation pattern is commonly observed.
The left gastric artery is generally the smallest of the three branches. It courses along the lesser curvature of the stomach, supplying its upper portion and the abdominal esophagus. It also forms connections with the right gastric artery, creating a network of blood vessels for the stomach.
The splenic artery is typically the longest branch and follows a winding path toward the spleen. Along its course, it delivers blood to the spleen, a significant portion of the pancreas, and parts of the stomach, including the fundus and the greater curvature. It gives rise to smaller vessels like the short gastric arteries and the left gastroepiploic artery, which further supply the stomach.
The common hepatic artery extends towards the right side of the abdomen. This artery provides oxygenated blood to the liver, gallbladder, and portions of the stomach, duodenum, and pancreas. It further divides into vessels like the proper hepatic artery, which supplies the liver and gallbladder, and the gastroduodenal artery, which serves parts of the stomach and duodenum.
Why the Celiac Trunk is Vital
The celiac trunk’s role in supplying blood to key upper abdominal organs is crucial for overall bodily function. It ensures that the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, esophagus, and duodenum receive a consistent flow of oxygen and nutrients. This supply is necessary for these organs to perform tasks like breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, processing waste, and regulating metabolism. Without adequate blood supply, their functions would be compromised; for example, the liver relies on this blood flow for detoxification and metabolic processes, and the stomach and pancreas depend on it for digestion and enzyme production. Maintaining the integrity of the celiac trunk’s blood flow is crucial for supporting digestion and nutrient distribution.