An angiogram of the coeliac axis reveals it arises from the aorta at which vertebral level, and supplies three primary branches. Which branch is NOT a direct branch of the coeliac axis?

• A Left gastric artery
• B Superior mesenteric artery ✓
• C Common hepatic artery
• D Splenic artery

Explanation

The coeliac axis (trunk) arises at T12–L1 from the abdominal aorta and divides into three primary branches: left gastric artery, common hepatic artery, and splenic artery. The superior mesenteric artery is a separate vessel arising from the aorta approximately 1 cm below the coeliac trunk at the L1 level and supplies the midgut from the duodenojejunal flexure to the proximal two-thirds of the transverse colon. Knowing this distinction is essential when interpreting mesenteric angiography for GI bleeding.

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

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