Superior phrenic arteries

The superior phrenic arteries are small paired vessels that supply the superior (thoracic) surface of the diaphragm.

Origin: The superior phrenic arteries most commonly arise from either the thoracic aorta directly or from the 10th intercostal artery.

Distribution: After a short course, the superior phrenic arteries typically terminate within the medial and posterosuperior surfaces of the thoracic diaphragm and diaphragmatic crura when arising from the aorta or proximal intercostal arteries. When originating from the distal segment of the intercostal arteries, their lateral origin confines their distribution to the posterior surface of the diaphragm. These vessels form part of the complex arterial network supplying the diaphragm, which includes anastomoses with the inferior phrenic arteries and internal thoracic arteries.