The gut arteries

What it does

The superior mesenteric artery supplies the small intestine and the first half of the colon; the inferior mesenteric supplies the second half. They spread through the mesentery, the fan of tissue that suspends the bowel, in looping arcades.

Why it matters

If these arteries narrow, eating can cause abdominal pain after meals because the gut can't get enough blood to digest food.

Nearby

• The aorta
• The small intestine
• The large intestine
• The portal vein

Read more

• Superior and inferior mesenteric arteries — Wikipedia