Superior vesical artery

The Superior vesical artery (pronounced: suh-PEER-ee-or vuh-SI-kuhl AHR-tuh-ree) is a significant artery in the human body that supplies blood to the upper part of the bladder and the ureter.

Etymology

The term "Superior vesical artery" is derived from the Latin words 'superior' meaning 'higher', 'vesica' meaning 'bladder', and 'arteria' meaning 'windpipe, artery'.

Anatomy

The Superior vesical artery usually arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery, but variations can occur. It travels inferiorly and anteriorly to reach the superior aspect of the bladder.

Function

The primary function of the Superior vesical artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the upper part of the bladder and the ureter.

Related Terms

Inferior vesical artery: An artery that supplies blood to the lower part of the bladder and the prostate in males.
Internal iliac artery: A major artery that gives rise to the Superior vesical artery.
Bladder: A hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine.
Ureter: The duct by which urine passes from the kidney to the bladder.