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The celiac trunk (truncus coeliacus) is the first major ventral branch of the abdominal aorta, arising at the level of T12–L1 vertebrae just below the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm. It is a short, thick artery (≈1–2 cm long) that supplies the foregut structures.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeIQ2zfO6dw&t=564s

Celiac Artery Trunk Anatomy // Revmed

Anatomy

Origin & Course

• Arises from anterior surface of abdominal aorta at T12 (just below diaphragm).
• Quickly divides into its three main branches.

Main Branches ("Tripod of Haller")

| Left gastric artery | • Smallest branch. • Ascends to esophageal hiatus (gives esophageal branches). • Runs along lesser curvature of stomach → anastomoses with right gastric artery. | | --- | --- | | Common hepatic artery | Branches: • Proper hepatic artery (→ right & left hepatic arteries; right hepatic gives cystic artery). • Right gastric artery. • Gastroduodenal artery (→ right gastroepiploic, superior pancreaticoduodenal arteries). | | Splenic artery | Branches: • Pancreatic branches. • Short gastric arteries. • Left gastroepiploic artery. |

Areas Supplied

• Foregut derivatives:
  • Abdominal esophagus.
  • Stomach.
  • Liver.
  • Gallbladder.
  • Pancreas (proximal part).
  • Spleen.
  • Upper duodenum (proximal to major papilla).

Variants (Important for Radiology & Surgery)

• Normal "classic" branching pattern: ~70%.
• Variants (~30% cases):
  • Hepatosplenic trunk, gastrosplenic trunk, celiomesenteric trunk (common origin with SMA).
  • Replaced hepatic artery (from SMA or left gastric).
  • Accessory hepatic arteries.
• Preoperative vascular mapping (CT angiography / DSA) is crucial before liver transplant, pancreatic or gastric surgery.

Radiology