The celiac trunk is a major arterial pathway situated within the abdomen. It originates directly from the aorta, the body’s largest artery, serving as a conduit for oxygen-rich blood. This vessel delivers nutrients and oxygen to several organs in the upper abdominal region.
Anatomy of the Celiac Trunk
The celiac trunk emerges from the anterior aspect of the abdominal aorta, positioned just below the diaphragm at the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) or the first lumbar vertebra (L1). It is short, usually measuring about 1 to 2 centimeters before it divides. This division forms its three primary terminal branches, which distribute blood to their target organs. Its strategic location ensures a direct and efficient blood supply to key digestive and accessory organs.
The Left Gastric Artery and Its Supply
The left gastric artery is one of the three main branches originating directly from the celiac trunk. This artery primarily supplies the stomach’s lesser curvature and the abdominal portion of the esophagus. The blood it provides is crucial for the stomach’s muscular contractions and glandular secretions, which are necessary for the initial stages of food digestion.
The Common Hepatic Artery and Its Supply
The common hepatic artery constitutes another significant branch of the celiac trunk. This artery supplies blood to a broad array of organs integral to digestion and metabolism. Its branches deliver blood to the liver, which performs numerous metabolic functions, and the gallbladder, responsible for bile storage. Additionally, it supplies the pyloric region of the stomach, the initial segment of the duodenum, and the head of the pancreas.
The Splenic Artery and Its Supply
The splenic artery, often the largest branch of the celiac trunk, follows a path toward its destinations. It primarily supplies the spleen, an organ involved in filtering blood and immune surveillance. Beyond the spleen, it supplies parts of the stomach, including the fundus and greater curvature through its short gastric and left gastro-omental (gastroepiploic) branches. The body and tail of the pancreas also receive blood supply from the splenic artery. This network supports the pancreas’s endocrine functions, like hormone production, and exocrine functions, involving digestive enzyme secretion.
The Overall Importance of the Celiac Trunk’s Supply
The celiac trunk is an arterial system that coordinates supply to interconnected organs. It is the primary arterial blood source for organs derived from the embryonic foregut, including the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, gallbladder, duodenum, and esophagus. This vascular network ensures these organs receive oxygen and nutrients for their functions. Its proper functioning is important for digestion, metabolic processes, and physiological health.