Corpus: Appendicular artery

The appendicular artery is a branch of the ileocolic artery responsible for supplying the vermiform appendix with arterial blood.

The appendicular artery arises near the Bauhin valve (ileocecal valve). It then descends caudally into the mesentery of the appendix, running along its free edge towards the distal end, where it gives off numerous small branches.

During surgical procedures involving the appendix, the proximity of the appendicular artery to the base of the appendix is significant. Care must be taken to avoid injuring the artery, as this can lead to intra-abdominal hemorrhage.