The splenic artery is a major branch of the celiac trunk that follows a characteristically tortuous (winding) course along the superior border of the pancreas to reach the spleen. It is one of the main arterial structures evaluated during abdominal ultrasound of the upper abdomen. On sonography, the splenic artery can be followed along the pancreas and is identified by its pulsatile flow on Doppler. Splenic artery aneurysms, though uncommon, are the most frequent visceral artery aneurysm and are important to detect because of the risk of rupture, particularly during pregnancy. The splenic artery is also relevant in portal hypertension, where it may become enlarged, and in pancreatitis, where it can be affected by surrounding inflammation or pseudocysts.
Sonography Term