What is the spinal level associated with the coeliac trunk?

The coeliac trunk is an important artery that branches off from the abdominal aorta and supplies blood to several organs, including the stomach, liver, spleen, and parts of the pancreas and small intestine. It typically arises at the level of the T12 vertebra. This anatomical relationship is significant in both surgical practice and diagnostic imaging, as identifying the correct vertebral level helps in understanding the vascular supply and potential surgical approaches in the abdominal region.

The identification of T12 as the correct spinal level is based on conventional anatomical landmarks and is consistent with standard medical education. This alignment is clinically relevant during procedures such as abdominal surgeries where vascular anatomy is critically important.

Understanding this connection enhances the ability to predict complications related to the vascular supply during surgery and during assessment of abdominal trauma or diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract.