What is iliocolic artery?

The ileocolic artery is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery, which supplies blood to the lower part of the small intestine and the ascending colon. It arises from the superior mesenteric artery and runs to the medial side of the right ileocolonic junction, where it divides into the right colic and ileal branches. The right colic artery supplies the proximal part of the ascending colon, while the ileal branch supplies the terminal ileum. The ileocolic artery also gives off the appendicular artery, which supplies blood to the appendix. A blockage or occlusion of the ileocolic artery can lead to ischemia or infarction of the affected intestine.