Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Ileocolic Artery - StatPearls - NCBI

These arteries pass between the layers of the mesentery. Before reaching the intestinal wall, they divide and join with adjacent branches to form a series of loops or arterial arcades .

To deliver nutrients and oxygen required for the ileum's digestive and absorptive functions. Clinical Significance

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It arises from the left side of the superior mesenteric artery .

The ileal artery is part of an intricate network that includes the (supplying the distal ileum and cecum) and the marginal artery of Drummond , which provides collateral circulation between the SMA and the inferior mesenteric artery. This redundancy is critical for protecting the bowel against ischemia (lack of blood flow) if one branch becomes blocked.

From the last arcade, small, straight vessels called vasa recta extend directly into the intestinal wall to provide localized blood flow.

The (also known as the ileal artery ) is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) that specifically supplies oxygenated blood to the ileum , the final and longest section of the small intestine . Anatomical Role & Distribution