Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

As a consequence of ligating the inferior mesenteric artery, what part of the colon is typically removed?

1. Right colon

2. Center colon

3. Left colon

4. Rectum

The correct answer is: Left colon

When the inferior mesenteric artery is ligated, it primarily affects the blood supply to the distal colon, specifically the left colon and rectum. This artery supplies blood to the descending colon, sigmoid colon, and the rectum. In surgical procedures where this artery is ligated, it is often a part of a colectomy or resection aimed at treating conditions affecting these areas, such as diverticulitis or cancer. Consequently, the left colon, which includes the descending colon and sigmoid colon, is typically the segment that is removed due to the loss of blood supply resulting from the ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery. This process makes the left colon the correct answer, as it is directly affected by the interruption of blood flow from the artery. The other parts of the colon, such as the right colon and center colon, are supplied by other arteries (the superior mesenteric artery), which remain intact during this procedure. Therefore, they are less affected by the ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery.