Basic Arterial Anatomy and Interpretation of CT Angiography for Intra-Abdominal or Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Correlation with Conventional Angiographic Findings for Beginners

Abstract

It is essential to identify the causative artery in case of active intra-abdominal or gastrointestinal bleeding. A thorough understanding of the basic arterial anatomy is required to identify the causative artery on contrast-enhanced CT angiography and conventional catheter angiography. If one is familiar with the basic arterial anatomy, obtaining access to the bleeding artery will be easier, despite the variations in the origin and course of the vessels. We describe the basic arterial anatomy that will help beginners in diagnostic radiology to identify the blood vessels that can cause active intra-abdominal or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Keywords

• gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• abdominal cavity
• arteries
• anatomy
• angiography