Ileal arteries

Ileal arteries are a group of arteries that supply blood to the ileum section of the small intestine. They originate from the superior mesenteric artery, which is a major artery of the abdominal cavity.

Etymology

The term "ileal" is derived from the Latin word "ileum", which refers to the third part of the small intestine. The word "artery" comes from the Greek word "arteria", meaning "windpipe, artery".

Anatomy

The ileal arteries are branches of the superior mesenteric artery. They run in the mesentery and supply the ileum, which is the final section of the small intestine. The ileal arteries form anastomoses (connections) with each other and with the jejunal arteries, which supply the jejunum, the middle section of the small intestine.

Function

The primary function of the ileal arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the ileum. The ileum is responsible for the absorption of vitamin B12 and bile salts, as well as the remaining nutrients not absorbed by the jejunum.

Clinical significance

Blockage or damage to the ileal arteries can lead to ischemia (insufficient blood supply), which can cause pain and potentially serious complications, such as intestinal infarction (death of intestinal tissue due to lack of blood supply).

Related terms

• Superior mesenteric artery
• Jejunal arteries
• Ischemia
• Intestinal infarction

See also

• Ileum
• Small intestine
• Artery

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