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Superior Phrenic Arteries (Right)
Cardiovascular System

Superior Phrenic Arteries (Right)

Arteriae phrenicae superiores

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Quick Facts

Origin: Descending thoracic aorta.

Course: Superior surface of the respiratory diaphragm.

Branches: None.

Supplied Structures: Respiratory diaphragm.

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Origin

The superior phrenic artery arises from the distal part of the descending thoracic aorta. Sometimes, the superior phrenic artery may arise from the tenth posterior intercostal artery (Loukas et al., 2007).

Course

From its origin, the superior phrenic artery traverses the superior surface of the respiratory diaphragm.

Branches

None.

Supplied Structures

The superior phrenic artery supplies the vertebral portion of the respiratory diaphragm. It also forms an anastomosis with the musculophrenic and pericardiacophrenic arteries to ensure constant supply to the diaphragm.

References

Loukas, M., Louis, R. G., Wartmann, C. T., Tubbs, R. S., Esmaeili, E., Bagenholm, A. C., Merbs, W., Curry, B. and Jordan, R. (2007) 'Superior phrenic artery: an anatomic study', Surg Radiol Anat, 29(1), pp. 97-102

Complete Anatomy

The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform

Complete Anatomy