Which artery supplies the transverse colon?

The middle colic artery is responsible for supplying blood to the transverse colon. It branches from the superior mesenteric artery and provides the necessary arterial supply to this section of the colon. The middle colic artery typically gives off several branches that run along the superior aspect of the transverse colon, ensuring that this area receives an adequate supply of oxygenated blood.

In the context of the blood supply to the colon, the middle colic artery specifically targets the transverse portion, while other arteries such as the right and left colic arteries primarily supply the ascending and descending colon respectively. The left gastric artery is associated with supplying parts of the stomach, and the ileocecal artery supplies the terminal ileum and cecum, rather than any section of the colon itself. Understanding the anatomical differences in arterial supply is crucial in interventional radiology, particularly when considering procedures such as angiography or interventional embolization.