Corpus: Superior pancreaticoduodenal artery

The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery is a terminal branch of the gastroduodenal artery, which itself branches from the common hepatic artery. In some cases, the superior pancreaticoduodenal artery may arise directly from the celiac trunk.

The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery descends between the adjacent borders of the duodenum and the pancreas. It forms an anastomosis with the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery within the Rio Branco arcade and also connects with the pancreatic branches of the splenic artery. As it continues its course, the artery divides into two main branches, which may also originate directly from the gastroduodenal artery.

• Anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery: This branch supplies the anterior surface of the duodenum and pancreas via duodenal and pancreatic branches.
• Posterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery: This branch supplies the posterior surface of the duodenum and pancreas through its respective duodenal and pancreatic branches.