Inter-mesenteric connections between the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries for left colonic vascularization: implications for colorectal surgery

Purpose There is confusion regarding the names, the number, and the exact location of the colonic arterial arches which provide connections between the superior and inferior (IMA) mesenteric arteries at the level of the left colic angle. The aim of this review was to delineate the “true” colic arches arising in the meso of the left colic angle and to describe their surgical implications.