Appendicular Artery

arteria appendicularis

The appendicular artery is the primary blood supply to the vermiform appendix, arising from the ileocolic artery and descending behind the terminal ileum in the free margin of the mesoappendix to reach the appendiceal tip. It is an end artery with limited collateral circulation, making the appendix particularly vulnerable to ischaemia when arterial flow is compromised by appendiceal obstruction, inflammation, or volvulus.

Region: Abdomen

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Thrombosis of the appendicular artery is a consequence of acute appendicitis, contributing to appendiceal wall ischaemia, gangrene, and perforation when treatment is delayed. Laparoscopic appendicectomy requires reliable control of the appendicular artery in the mesoappendix, achieved using bipolar diathermy, clips, or an endoscopic stapler across the mesoappendix. Accessory appendicular arteries are present in approximately 15% of individuals and must be identified to avoid post-operative haemorrhage.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Appendicular Artery Thrombosis in Appendicitis

Progressive appendiceal inflammation causes thrombosis of the appendicular artery, producing transmural ischaemic necrosis of the appendiceal wall that manifests as gangrene and perforation risk, underscoring the urgency of appendicectomy when gangrenous appendicitis is suspected.

Mesoappendix Bleeding in Appendicectomy

Inadequate haemostasis of the appendicular artery during laparoscopic appendicectomy produces post-operative haemorrhage, prevented by careful identification and bipolar coagulation or stapling of the entire mesoappendix width including accessory appendicular vessels.