Left gastric artery

Left Gastric Artery

The Left Gastric Artery (pronunciation: /lɛft 'gæstrɪk 'ɑrtəri/) is a significant blood vessel that arises from the Celiac Trunk.

Etymology

The term "Left Gastric Artery" is derived from the Latin words "gastricus" meaning "stomach" and "arteria" meaning "windpipe, artery". The "left" in the name indicates its position relative to the midline of the body.

Anatomy

The Left Gastric Artery is the smallest among the three branches of the Celiac Trunk. It runs towards the right, passing behind the Omental Bursa and in front of the Esophagus. It then turns downwards to follow the lesser curvature of the Stomach, distributing several small branches to the esophagus and the stomach.

Function

The primary function of the Left Gastric Artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the lesser curvature of the stomach and the lower part of the esophagus.

Related Terms

Celiac Trunk: The major branch of the abdominal aorta that supplies blood to the stomach, liver, and spleen.
Omental Bursa: A cavity located behind the stomach and the lesser omentum.
Esophagus: The muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach.
Stomach: The organ of digestion situated in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen.