What artery supplies the lower part of the esophagus?

The lower part of the esophagus is primarily supplied by the left gastric artery. This artery branches off from the celiac trunk, which is the main artery supplying the abdominal organs. The left gastric artery runs along the lesser curvature of the stomach and provides blood to the lower esophagus, particularly in the segment that passes through the diaphragm into the stomach.

Understanding the vascular supply of the esophagus is crucial, as this blood supply supports its role in digestion and can be relevant in clinical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal varices. The correct identification of the left gastric artery’s role emphasizes its importance in maintaining the health of the lower esophagus.