What are the three arteries into which the celiac trunk trifurcates?

The celiac trunk is a major vessel that branches off into three primary arteries, which play critical roles in supplying blood to the upper abdominal organs. The correct answer identifies the common hepatic artery, left gastric artery, and splenic artery as the three branches of the celiac trunk.

The common hepatic artery supplies blood to the liver, gallbladder, stomach, and parts of the duodenum. The left gastric artery supplies the lesser curvature of the stomach and the esophagus. The splenic artery primarily supplies the spleen, but also branches to provide blood to the pancreas and parts of the stomach. Together, these three arteries ensure that the vital organs within the upper abdomen receive an adequate blood supply.

Understanding the vascular anatomy is essential for various clinical applications, including surgery and interpreting imaging studies, as knowledge of these branches can help anticipate potential complications during procedures involving the upper abdomen.