On an axial contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen at the level of L1, the uncinate process of the pancreas is seen. Which vessel lies immediately anterior to the uncinate process?

• A Splenic artery
• B Superior mesenteric artery ✓
• C Left renal artery
• D Inferior mesenteric artery

Explanation

The uncinate process extends behind the superior mesenteric vessels, so on axial sections at L1 the superior mesenteric artery lies directly anterior to the uncinate process with the superior mesenteric vein to its right. The splenic artery runs along the superior border of the body and tail of the pancreas, far from the uncinate process. The inferior mesenteric artery arises lower, near L3, and the left renal artery runs posterior to the pancreas toward the hilum.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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