Anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery

The anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery (AIPDA) is a branch of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery, which itself arises from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) or, less commonly, from the first jejunal branch of the SMA. It is one of the key vessels supplying the head of the pancreas and the duodenum.

Origin and Course

The inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery bifurcates into an anterior and a posterior branch shortly after its origin. The anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery courses along the anterior surface of the head of the pancreas, running in the groove between the duodenum and the pancreatic head. It ascends toward the superior aspect of the pancreatic head, where it anastomoses with the anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery, a branch of the gastroduodenal artery (from the common hepatic artery of the celiac trunk).

Anastomotic Arcade

Together, the anterior superior and anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries form the anterior pancreaticoduodenal arcade, a critical arterial anastomosis that connects the celiac trunk circulation with the superior mesenteric artery circulation. A corresponding posterior arcade is formed by the posterior superior and posterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries.

Territory of Supply

The AIPDA supplies:

• The anterior portion of the head of the pancreas

• The second and third parts of the duodenum (particularly their anterior walls)

• The uncinate process of the pancreas (in part)

Anatomical Variants

Variations are common. The inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery may arise as a single trunk that bifurcates, or the anterior and posterior branches may originate independently from the SMA or its jejunal branches. Understanding these variants is essential for safe surgical and interventional radiologic procedures in this region.