Which does not supply blood to the GI tract

Which does not supply blood to the GI tract? a. Superior mesenteric artery b. Celiac trunk c. Hepatic artery d. Inferior mesenteric artery e. No exceptions; all of these arteries supply blood to the GI tract.

The correct answer and explanation is:

The correct answer is c. Hepatic artery.

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is supplied by several major arteries that arise from the abdominal aorta. These arteries ensure the proper oxygenation and nutrient supply for the stomach, intestines, liver, and other related organs. Here’s a breakdown of the arteries listed:

1. Superior mesenteric artery (SMA): This artery supplies blood to the majority of the small intestine (except for the duodenum), as well as the cecum, appendix, ascending colon, and part of the transverse colon. It is crucial for the proper functioning of the midgut.
2. Celiac trunk: This artery is the first major branch of the abdominal aorta and supplies blood to the foregut, which includes the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, and the first part of the duodenum. It is vital for the upper portion of the GI tract.
3. Hepatic artery: Although the hepatic artery does supply blood to the liver, it is not primarily responsible for the blood supply to the GI tract itself. The liver is connected to the GI tract, but the hepatic artery is more involved in the circulation of the liver rather than directly supplying the intestines or stomach. Thus, while it is an important artery for the liver, it does not directly supply blood to the entire GI tract.
4. Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA): This artery supplies blood to the hindgut, which includes the distal third of the transverse colon, the descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. The IMA ensures that these parts of the GI tract receive oxygenated blood for their functions.

So, while the superior mesenteric artery, celiac trunk, and inferior mesenteric artery are all directly involved in supplying blood to different parts of the GI tract, the hepatic artery primarily supplies the liver and does not directly supply the GI tract as a whole.