Definition

Noun: 1. A branch of the superior mesenteric artery that supplies the ileum: This refers to a specific artery, often called the ileal artery, which delivers oxygenated blood to the final section of the small intestine. 2. An artery that is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery that supplies the jejunum: This refers to a specific artery, often called the jejunal artery, which delivers oxygenated blood to the middle section of the small intestine.

Usage Notes

The term "intestinal artery" is a general anatomical term. In precise medical and anatomical contexts, it typically refers to one of the multiple branches arising from the superior mesenteric artery. These branches are specifically named based on the intestinal segment they supply (e.g., jejunal arteries, ileal arteries). The term is often used in the plural ("intestinal arteries") to describe this collective group of vessels.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon carefully ligated the intestinal artery supplying the affected segment of bowel.
  • Blockage of an intestinal artery can lead to acute mesenteric ischemia, a serious medical condition.
  • The intestinal arteries form arcades within the mesentery to ensure a robust blood supply to the small intestine.

Advanced Usage

• "Arcades of intestinal arteries": This phrase describes the characteristic anatomical pattern where these arteries connect with each other, forming a series of arches (arcades) in the mesentery before sending final branches to the intestinal wall. This structure provides a collateral blood supply.
  • The intricate arcades of intestinal arteries are a key feature of the mesenteric vasculature.

Variants and Related Words

• Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) (n): The major artery from which the intestinal arteries typically branch.
• Jejunal Artery (n): A specific intestinal artery supplying the jejunum.
• Ileal Artery (n): A specific intestinal artery supplying the ileum.
• Inferior Mesenteric Artery (IMA) (n): The artery supplying blood to the large intestine (colon), distinct from the intestinal arteries of the small intestine.

Synonyms

• Mesenteric artery branch: A more general descriptive synonym.
• Jejunal artery / Ileal artery: More specific synonyms depending on the target segment of intestine.

Related Phrases

• Intestinal blood supply: The overall system of arteries, veins, and capillaries serving the intestines.
  • Atherosclerosis can compromise the intestinal blood supply.
• Mesenteric ischemia: The medical condition resulting from inadequate blood flow through the mesenteric arteries, including the intestinal arteries.
  • Sudden abdominal pain may be a sign of mesenteric ischemia.

Noun

1. branch of the superior mesenteric artery that supplies the ileum
2. an artery that is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery that supplies the jejunum