The artery that supplies blood to the diaphragm is called?

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO - 2017 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The primary blood supply to the inferior (abdominal) surface of the diaphragm comes from the right and left inferior phrenic arteries.
These arteries are typically the first paired branches that arise from the abdominal aorta, just below the diaphragm.
The diaphragm is a large muscle, and this dedicated blood supply is crucial for its constant function in respiration.

Option A: The inferior mesenteric artery supplies structures of the hindgut, not the diaphragm.
Option B: The suprarenal arteries supply the adrenal (suprarenal) glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
Option D: The coeliac trunk is a major artery that branches to supply foregut organs like the stomach, liver, and spleen, but not the diaphragm itself.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Arterial supply of the diaphragm helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
The diaphragm is the most important muscle for breathing. A compromised blood supply (ischemia) to the diaphragm, due to conditions like aortic dissection or severe atherosclerosis, can lead to diaphragmatic weakness or paralysis, causing significant respiratory distress.
During abdominal surgeries, especially near the upper abdomen, surgeons must be aware of the location of the inferior phrenic arteries to avoid accidental injury, which could impair post-operative respiratory function.
What if the question asked about the nerve supply? The phrenic nerve (C3, C4, C5) provides motor innervation to the diaphragm. The saying 'C3, 4, 5 keeps the diaphragm alive' is a common mnemonic.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key anatomical structure in the question, which is the 'diaphragm'.
The question asks for the 'artery that supplies blood' to this structure. This is a factual recall question based on anatomy.
Visualize the location of the diaphragm at the top of the abdominal cavity, separating it from the thoracic cavity.
Consider the names of the options. The term 'phrenic' is anatomically associated with the diaphragm (e.g., phrenic nerve). This makes 'Inferior phrenic arteries' a strong candidate.
Evaluate the other options: 'mesenteric' relates to the intestines, 'suprarenal' to the adrenal glands, and 'coeliac' to the upper digestive organs. This process of elimination confirms the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QHVFRZk-bo0HCxf8lkitis

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 180-182

Practise the full AIIMS Raipur NO - 2017 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.