Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
The Helsinki Rat Microsurgical Sidewall Aneurysm Model
Published on: October 12, 2014
Should Surgeons Evaluate the Anatomy of Drummond Marginal Artery and Riolan's Arch Preoperatively?
Emrah Karatay1, Baki Ekci2, Mirkhalig Javadov3
1Department of Radiology, Istanbul Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
Introduction:
The Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch are important links between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), which provide collateral flow in case of arterial occlusion or significant stenosis. The Riolan's arch is important in colorectal surgery since it allows for vascularization of the descending colon by the SMA after ligation of the IMA at its origin, especially in cancer patients. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the presence of the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch. In addition, we assessed anatomic variants of the middle colic artery (MCA) and classified the anatomic relationships between SMA and SMV.
Materials And Methods:
Following screening, 115 abdominal CT scans were included in the study. For all cases, the presence of the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch, the first diameter of these arterial structures at their origins, the first emerging diameter and anatomic variants of the MCA, and the anatomic relationships between SMA and SMV were evaluated.
Results:
Drummond marginal artery was present in all participants (100%). The Riolan's arch was observed in 27.8% of all cases and was higher than in other studies. This can be related to the focus of this arch. In addition, we did not find any similar study in the literature that evaluated MCA origin types, SMA-SMV variants with the presence of the Drummond artery and the Riolan's arch, and the first emerging diameters of vascular structures, such as the Drummond marginal artery, the Riolan's arch, and MCA.
Conclusion:
Evaluating and stating whether the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch are seen in thin section abdominal computed tomography (CT) and CT angiographies preoperatively may help in planning appropriate resections and can reduce unwanted postoperative morbidity.
Insights
The Drummond marginal artery is always present, while Riolan's arch appears in 27.8% of cases, aiding in surgical planning for colorectal procedures. These findings are crucial for understanding mesenteric artery collaterals.
Area of Science:
- Vascular anatomy
- Radiology
- Colorectal surgery
Background:
- The Drummond marginal artery and Riolan's arch are critical collateral pathways between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA).
- These arteries are vital for maintaining blood supply to the colon, particularly after IMA ligation in procedures like cancer surgery.
- Understanding their presence and variations is essential for surgical planning and preventing complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of the Drummond marginal artery and Riolan's arch using CT scans.
- To assess anatomical variants of the middle colic artery (MCA) and the relationship between the SMA and superior mesenteric vein (SMV).
- To analyze the diameters of these vascular structures at their origins.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 115 abdominal CT scans.
- Evaluation of the presence, origin diameters, and anatomical variants of the Drummond marginal artery, Riolan's arch, and MCA.
- Classification of SMA-SMV anatomical relationships.
Main Results:
- The Drummond marginal artery was identified in 100% of participants.
- The Riolan's arch was observed in 27.8% of cases, a higher prevalence than reported in some previous studies.
- No prior studies were found that simultaneously evaluated MCA origin types, SMA-SMV variants, and the prevalence/diameters of the Drummond marginal artery and Riolan's arch.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative identification of the Drummond marginal artery and Riolan's arch via CT imaging can significantly aid in surgical planning.
- Accurate anatomical assessment can help minimize postoperative morbidity in colorectal surgeries.
- This study provides valuable data on the prevalence and variations of these important mesenteric arteries.
