On an axial CT of the abdomen at the level of the celiac axis, which structure lies immediately anterior to the aorta and posterior to the lesser sac?

• A Splenic artery
• B Superior mesenteric vein
• C Body of the pancreas ✓
• D Left renal vein

Explanation

At the level of the celiac axis (approximately L1), the body of the pancreas lies directly anterior to the aorta and posterior to the lesser sac (omental bursa). The splenic artery courses along the superior border of the pancreatic body but is not the structure immediately anterior to the aorta. The superior mesenteric vein lies anterior to the uncinate process of the pancreas at a slightly lower level. Identifying the pancreas in this cross-sectional relationship is fundamental for CT interpretation of upper abdominal pathology.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.