The lumbar artery, pronounced /ˈlʌmbər ˈɑːt(ə)ri/ in IPA phonetic transcription, is a major blood vessel that supplies the lumbar region of the back. The word "lumbar" refers to the lower part of the spine, while "artery" denotes a blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to different parts of the body. The spelling of "lumbar artery" is straightforward and easy to remember, making it a common term used by medical professionals when referring to this important blood vessel.
The lumbar artery is a vital blood vessel primarily responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the region of the lower back and spine. It is among the major branches of the abdominal aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. Specifically, the lumbar artery emerges from the back of the abdominal aorta, typically originating between the levels of the first and fourth lumbar vertebrae.
As it descends downwards, the lumbar artery typically branches off into four or five smaller vessels, known as the lumbar branches. These branches extend laterally and posteriorly to supply blood to the respective lumbar vertebrae, the overlying muscles, and the spinal cord. They also give rise to several anastomoses, connecting with nearby arteries to ensure adequate blood supply to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues.
The lumbar artery plays a crucial role in maintaining proper blood circulation to the lower back region and the structures it serves. By delivering oxygenated blood, nutrients, and other essential substances, it supports the overall health and function of the lumbar vertebrae, the spinal cord, and associated musculature. In cases of lumbar artery occlusion or disease, such as lumbar artery stenosis or aneurysm, impaired blood flow can lead to various health problems, including lower back pain, muscle weakness, compromised spinal cord function, and tissue damage. Thus, the lumbar artery's significance lies in its ability to sustain the lower back's vascular and physiological integrity.
The word "lumbar" refers to the lower back region of the body, specifically the region between the ribs and the pelvis. It comes from the Latin word "lumbus", which means "loin" or "lower part of the back".
The term "artery" comes from the Latin word "arteria", which was derived from the Greek word "artēria". It originally meant "windpipe" or "airway", as the ancient Greeks believed that arteries carried air, not blood. This misconception was corrected by the Roman physician Galen in the 2nd century CE. However, the name "artery" continued to be used to refer to the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart.