The vasculature of the pancreas and colon is highly variable and clinically relevant in pancreatic and
colon surgeries. While previous reports have demonstrated variant anastomoses between the colonic and
pancreatic arteries, to our knowledge, the specific variant observed in our study has not previously been
reported. The aim of this study was to contribute additional data regarding the complex vasculature of the
foregut and midgut to enhance anatomic understanding needed for careful vascular planning in colorectal
and pancreatic surgeries. During a routine cadaveric dissection in our medical school anatomy laboratory,
we identified an unusual branching pattern of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) on a 72 y/o male
donor. The middle colic artery (MCA) was identified with four branches. An unnamed fourth branch was
identified originating from the posterior MCA. This artery descended from its origin and bifurcated into
an inferior and a transverse branch that crossed anterior to the SMA. The transverse artery divided into a
branch that supplied the small intestine, and a long ascending branch that coursed towards the inferior
border of the pancreas with branches supplying the head, uncinate process, body, and tail of the pancreas.
This unnamed artery originated from a common trunk with the MCA, with branches that supplied the
colon, small intestine, and pancreas. This case represents a novel arterial branching pattern between the vasculature of the colon and pancreas. Knowledge of unique arterial variants benefits fields of anatomy
and surgery and supports efforts to reduce operative complications in colorectal and pancreatic surgeries.
