Supraduodenal artery

The supraduodenal artery (Artery of Wilkie) is a small arterial branch that supplies the superior (first) portion of the duodenum. It typically arises from the gastroduodenal artery, the hepatic artery proper, or the common hepatic artery, though its origin can be variable. This vessel courses along the anterosuperior aspect of the first part of the duodenum, providing blood supply to the duodenal bulb and the surrounding periduodenal tissues.

Key anatomical features:

• Origin: Most commonly from the gastroduodenal artery, but may also arise from the right hepatic artery, common hepatic artery, or retroduodenal artery.

• Course: It runs along the superior border of the first portion of the duodenum (D1), typically posterior to the pylorus.

• Supply: Provides arterial perfusion to the supraduodenal segment of the duodenum (duodenal bulb/cap).

• Clinical significance: Knowledge of this artery is important during surgical procedures involving the duodenum, pylorus, and pancreatic head (e.g., Whipple procedure, peptic ulcer surgery), as inadvertent injury can lead to ischemia of the duodenal stump or hemorrhage. It is also relevant in the context of upper gastrointestinal bleeding from duodenal ulcers.

The supraduodenal artery is part of the broader dual arterial arcade that supplies the duodenum, which includes branches from both the celiac trunk (via the gastroduodenal artery) and the superior mesenteric artery (via the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery). This anastomotic network ensures collateral blood flow to the duodenum and pancreatic head.