The Abdominal Aorta
About
The abdominal aorta extends from the thoracic aorta. It starts from the aortic opening of the diaphragm (T12 level) and continues down to the 4th lumbar vertebra, where it bifurcates into the right and left common iliac arteries. It serves as the main artery for supplying oxygenated blood to the abdominal, pelvic organs, and lower limbs. ​​​​​
Anatomical course
​The abdominal aorta passes retroperitoneally, positioned in front of the lumbar vertebrae, between the left and right crus of the diaphragm. Between the right crus and the abdominal aorta lies the thoracic duct and cistern chyli. Running parallel to the abdominal aorta is the inferior vena cava.
​​
Branches
Parietal Branch
Unpaired Branches
1. Median sacral artery
​1. Inferior phrenic arteries: supply the diaphragm.​​​​​​​
2. Four pairs of Lumbar arteries
3. Common iliac artery
Paired Branches
Visceral Branches
Unpaired Branches
​1. Celiac trunk/artery: a short artery that divides into the left gastric, splenic, and common hepatic arteries, supplying the stomach, spleen, liver, and other structures.
2. Superior mesenteric artery (SMA): supplies the majority of the small intestine and the proximal part of the large intestine.
3. Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA): supplies the distal part of the large intestine.
​​​​
Paired Branches
1. Middle suprarenal arteries: supply the adrenal glands.
​
2. Renal arteries: supply the kidneys.
3. Gonadal arteries (testicular or ovarian): supply the testes in males or ovaries in females.