Jejunal and ileal branches of the superior mesenteric artery

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The jejunal and ileal branches of the superior mesenteric artery are variable in number.

They pass in the two layers of the mesentery to the jejunum and ileum and progressively divide and join in a series of anastomosing arcades. From the arcades, straight arteries (also known as the vasa recta) pass to the small bowel.