Inferior mesenteric artery detailed anatomy and morphometry.

Abstract

Background: The inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) supplies blood to the distal transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. A thorough understanding of IMA anatomy is crucial in colon cancer surgeries and emerging percutaneous interventions. However, there is limited research on its precise morphometry, including vessel length, diameters, and branching angles. This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of the IMA focusing on parameters essential for optimizing percutaneous vascular treatments and colon surgeries.

Materials and methods: Multiplanar reconstructions and maximum intensity projections were generated from contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography scans of 105 human bodies obtained during forensic examinations. The inferior mesenteric artery and its branches were assessed, with each scan analyzed and measured using specialized software. Left colic artery (LCA) has been divided into two groups based on its trunk length, and superior rectal artery (SRA) has been divided into three subgroups.

Results: A short trunk of the LCA was observed in 38.1% of cases, with an average length of 2.4 mm. A long trunk was observed in 61.9% of scans, with an average length of 42.6 mm. SRA type 1 was found in 53.3% of cases, type 2 in 38.1% of cases, and type 3 in 8.6% of cases. A larger number of sigmoid arteries was observed in women (p = 0.001).

Conclusions: In patients with a short left colic artery trunk, procedures in its branches may be easier due to wider angles and larger diameters, improving catheter access. Additionally, extra superior rectal arteries may form before the sigmoid arteries, which could impact colon surgery.