Superior Epigastric Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The superior epigastric artery is an artery of the anterior abdominal wall. It is a terminal branch of the internal mammary artery. It contributes to the blood supply of the diaphragm and anterior abdominal wall. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The superior epigastric artery originates at the sixth costal cartilage as a terminal continuation of the internal mammary artery. It travels inferiorly, passing between the costal and sternal origins of the diaphragm. The artery then reaches the anterior abdominal wall and enters the rectus sheath (posterior to the rectus abdominis muscle). It descends within the rectus sheath, providing branches to the anterior abdominal wall. At the level of the umbilicus, the superior epigastric artery terminates by dividing into branches that anastomose with the inferior epigastric artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Course of the superior epigastric artery Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Dissection of the anterolateral abdominal wall Dissection of the anterolateral abdominal wall You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Supply The superior epigastric artery contributes to the blood supply of the following structures: Anterior diaphragm Anterior abdominal wall Subcutaneous tissue and skin of the abdomen By OpenStax [CC BY 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 2The superior epigastric artery contributes to the blood supply of the anterior abdominal wall. Frequent questions What is the superior epigastric artery? The superior epigastric artery is an artery that supplies blood to the anterior abdominal wall and diaphragm. It is a terminal branch of the internal mammary artery and plays a crucial role in vascularising the abdominal region. What structures does the superior epigastric artery supply? The superior epigastric artery supplies blood to the anterior diaphragm, anterior abdominal wall, and the subcutaneous tissue and skin of the abdomen. This makes it essential for maintaining the health of these structures. Where does the superior epigastric artery originate? The superior epigastric artery originates at the sixth costal cartilage as a continuation of the internal mammary artery. Its position is significant as it marks the beginning of its descent towards the abdominal wall. How does the superior epigastric artery course through the body? The artery travels inferiorly, passing between the costal and sternal origins of the diaphragm before entering the rectus sheath. It then descends within the sheath, supplying branches to the anterior abdominal wall. What happens to the superior epigastric artery at the level of the umbilicus? At the level of the umbilicus, the superior epigastric artery terminates by branching into vessels that anastomose with the inferior epigastric artery. This anastomosis is important for ensuring adequate blood supply to the abdominal region. Rate This Article