Jejunal and ileal arteries

The jejunal and ileal arteries (collectively known as the intestinal arteries, Latin: arteriae intestinales) are vessels that arise from the left side of the superior mesenteric artery. They originate distally from the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery. These arteries supply the jejunum and most of the ileum.

The intestinal arteries pass between two layers of the mesenterium, creating anastomosing arches (or arcades) as they pass outward to supply the small intestine. The number of these arterial arcades increases distally along the small intestine. Extending from the terminal arcade are the vasa recta (straight vessels), which provide the final direct supply to the small intestine.