Superior Pancreaticoduodenal Artery

arteria pancreaticoduodenalis superior

The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery arises as the terminal branch of the gastroduodenal artery and descends in the groove between the duodenum and the head of the pancreas, dividing into anterior and posterior branches that anastomose with the corresponding inferior pancreaticoduodenal branches from the SMA. It supplies the head of the pancreas, the first and second parts of the duodenum, and the common bile duct.

Region: Abdomen

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery is divided during pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) as part of resection of the pancreatic head and duodenum. The gastroduodenal artery from which it originates is ligated proximal to its origin at the hepatic artery, making the hepatic artery's pressure test (applying a clamp to the GDA and checking pulsation in the hepatic artery) essential before GDA ligation. Pseudoaneurysm of the superior pancreaticoduodenal artery is a recognised complication after Whipple or pancreatitis.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

SPDA Pseudoaneurysm After Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis erodes the wall of the superior pancreaticoduodenal artery, producing a pseudoaneurysm in the peripancreatic tissues that may rupture into the duodenum or peritoneum, presenting as sentinel bleeding or sudden haemorrhage managed by angiographic embolisation or surgical ligation.