Comprehension: Major Abdominal Arteries
MRI and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can be used to study the major abdominal arteries. In the sagittal plane shown, note the level of origin of the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery (SMA). The MRA shows the left renal artery in cross-section immediately posterior to the SMA and anterior to the abdominal aorta. These vary between T12 and L1. Under fluoroscopic guidance, catheters can be placed in the celiac trunk or the superior mesenteric artery for injection of contrast materials. The images here were made following the injection of contrast material (gadolinium) in an antecubital vein. The contrast material flowed into the systemic circulation through the heart and lungs.
Celiac Trunk
Study the selective angiogram of the celiac trunk. Note the tortuous course of the splenic artery as it goes toward the spleen. The right and left gastric and gastroepiploic vessels can be seen. The latter vessels course along the greater curvature of the stomach; this patient's stomach has an unusually low position. Note the characteristic downward course of the gastroduodenal artery as it passes behind the first part of the duodenum. The pancreaticoduodenal arteries are not well seen.