Superior rectal artery

Superior rectal artery

The Superior rectal artery (also known as the superior hemorrhoidal artery) is an artery that supplies blood to the rectum. It is the terminal branch of the inferior mesenteric artery and is the primary blood supply to the rectum and upper part of the anus.

Etymology

The term "superior rectal artery" is derived from the Latin words "superior" meaning upper, "rectus" meaning straight, and "arteria" meaning windpipe or artery. The term "hemorrhoidal" is derived from the Greek word "haimorrhois" meaning liable to discharge blood.

Anatomy

The superior rectal artery descends into the pelvis and divides into two branches. These branches further subdivide into smaller branches that pierce the muscular coat of the rectum. Some of these branches run downwards to the anal canal and anastomose with the middle and inferior rectal arteries.

Clinical significance

The superior rectal artery is of clinical significance as it can be a site of rectal bleeding due to hemorrhoids. It is also important in surgeries involving the rectum and anus, such as hemorrhoidectomy and rectal resection.

Related terms

• Inferior mesenteric artery
• Rectum
• Anus
• Pelvis
• Anal canal
• Hemorrhoids
• Hemorrhoidectomy
• Rectal resection

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