esophageal branches of left gastric artery

The esophageal branches of the left gastric artery are small arterial branches that arise from the left gastric artery and supply blood to the abdominal esophagus. They form part of the arterial network supporting the lower esophagus.

These branches arise from the left gastric artery near the gastroesophageal junction and ascend to supply the abdominal portion of the esophagus. They travel in the lesser omentum and the esophageal hiatus region.

The esophageal branches of the left gastric artery supply oxygenated blood to the smooth muscle and mucosa of the abdominal esophagus, supporting the function and integrity of the lower esophageal wall.

These branches may be involved in the portosystemic collateral circulation at the gastroesophageal junction, which may be associated with esophageal varices in the setting of portal hypertension. They are also relevant in surgical procedures near the gastroesophageal junction.

The esophageal branches of the left gastric artery are small, short arterial vessels arising near the gastroesophageal junction. They are typically visible on detailed angiographic studies or CT angiography as fine branches ascending to the distal esophagus.