An axial CT of the upper abdomen demonstrates three arteries arising together from the anterior wall of the aorta just as it emerges through the diaphragm. At which vertebral level does this trunk typically arise?

• A L1
• B Lower border of T12 ✓
• C Upper border of L2
• D T11

Explanation

The coeliac trunk arises from the anterior aorta at the lower border of T12, immediately below the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm, and divides into the left gastric, splenic and common hepatic arteries. The superior mesenteric artery arises lower, at L1, and the renal arteries near L1-L2, so recognising the T12 origin separates the foregut supply from the midgut supply on serial axial sections.

Reference: Snell's Clinical Anatomy by Regions, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.