Anatomy
Course
Connects the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries in the gut. Formed when an anastomosis forms between the right, middle and left colic arteries, as well as the ileocolic artery. It runs in the mesentery with the other vessels of the bowel.
Supply
Supplies the bowel with blood, in conjunction with the other branches from the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries as part of an anastomosis.
Clinical
Can replace the blood supply of the inferior mesenteric artery should it become occluded, as it forms an anastomosis with the superior mesenteric artery.
Quite often, when the inferior mesenteric artery becomes occluded due to atherosclerosis in the aorta, or other pathologies, patients are asymptomatic as the marginal artery provides a collateral blood supply.
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