Superior epigastric artery

Origin The superior epigastric artery arises from the internal thoracic artery (referred to as the internal mammary artery in the accompanying diagram). Course and relations The superior epigastric artery pierces the diaphragm''' Along its course, it is accompanied by a similarly named vein, the superior epigastric vein. Anastomoses It anastomoses with the inferior epigastric artery upper rectus abdominis muscle, and some of the diaphragm. ==Collateralization in disease==

Vascular disease The superior epigastric arteries, inferior epigastric arteries, internal thoracic arteries and left subclavian artery and right subclavian artery / brachiocephalic are collateral vessels to the thoracic aorta and abdominal aorta. If the abdominal aorta develops a significant stenosis and/or blockage (as may be caused by atherosclerosis), this collateral pathway may develop sufficiently, over time, to supply blood to the lower limbs. Coarctation of the aorta A congenitally narrowed aorta, due to coarctation, is often associated with a significant enlargement of the internal thoracic and epigastric arteries. == See also ==