During a distal pancreatectomy, the surgeon identifies the splenic artery running in close relation to the pancreas. The splenic artery typically courses along which border of the pancreas before reaching the spleen?
- A Superior border ✓
- B Inferior border
- C Anterior surface
- D Posterior surface
Correct answer: A. Superior border
Explanation
The splenic artery, the largest branch of the celiac trunk, follows a characteristically tortuous course along the superior border of the pancreas. It travels within the lienorenal ligament to reach the splenic hilum. The splenic vein runs posterior to the pancreas. This superior border relationship is critical during pancreatic and splenectomy surgery to avoid vascular injury.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.