Arteria mesenterica is a medical term that refers to one of the major arteries supplying blood to the intestine. Its spelling can be a bit tricky for those who are not familiar with medical terminology. The word "arteria" is typically pronounced as "ahr-TEER-ee-uh", while "mesenterica" is pronounced as "mes-en-TER-ik-uh". When spoken at normal speed, the two words blend together and can sound like "ahr-TEER-ee-uh-mes-en-TER-ik-uh". It is important to spell and pronounce medical terms accurately to avoid confusion and ensure proper patient care.
Arteria Mesenterica, also known as the superior mesenteric artery, is a major blood vessel located in the abdominal cavity that supplies oxygenated blood to the small intestine and other structures within the abdomen. It is one of the three main branches arising from the abdominal aorta, alongside the celiac artery and inferior mesenteric artery.
The arteria mesenterica is responsible for delivering blood to the jejunum, ileum, and part of the duodenum, which are components of the small intestine. Additionally, it supplies blood to the vermiform appendix, ascending colon, and part of the transverse colon. The artery arises from the abdominal aorta just below the celiac artery and descends into the mesentery, a fan-shaped fold of the peritoneum that connects the intestine to the posterior abdominal wall.
The arteria mesenterica is responsible for providing a rich supply of oxygenated blood to sustain the metabolic needs of the intestines. It branches into many smaller arteries that penetrate the mesentery and branch further to supply the intestinal walls, facilitating the absorption of nutrients and waste removal. The artery also carries vital nutrients and hormones that aid in the digestion and absorption processes. In addition, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
Any obstruction or narrowing of the arteria mesenterica can lead to decreased blood flow to the small intestine, potentially resulting in a condition called mesenteric ischemia. This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestion-related problems, requiring immediate medical attention.
The word "Arteria Mesenterica" derives from two main roots: "arteria" and "mesenterica".
1. "Arteria" comes from the Latin word "artĕrĭa", which means "windpipe" or "artery". This Latin word, in turn, originates from the Greek word "arteriē", meaning "windpipe" or "artery". The term "artery" was initially used by ancient anatomists to describe the air tubes leading from the lungs, as they believed that they carried air and not blood. Over time, the term came to refer to the blood vessels supplying oxygenated blood throughout the body.
2. "Mesenterica" comes from the Latin adjective "mesentericus", which means "of the mesentery".