Anterior basal segmental artery of left lung

The anterior basal segmental artery of left lung (A8) is a branch of the left inferior pulmonary artery (also referred to as the left basal trunk or pars basalis) that supplies the anterior basal segment (segment VIII) of the left lower lobe.

Anatomical Overview

The left pulmonary artery, after entering the hilum of the left lung, gives off branches that correspond to the bronchopulmonary segments. The inferior division (basal trunk) of the left pulmonary artery typically divides into several segmental arteries that accompany the corresponding segmental bronchi of the left lower lobe. Among these is the anterior basal segmental artery, which courses alongside the anterior basal segmental bronchus (B VIII) to supply the anterior basal segment.

Key Characteristics

• Origin: Arises from the left inferior pulmonary artery (left basal trunk), which is a continuation of the descending branch of the left pulmonary artery after the superior segmental artery (A6) has been given off.

• Course: It travels anteriorly and inferiorly within the left lower lobe, closely accompanying the anterior basal segmental bronchus.

• Territory of supply: The anterior basal segment (S VIII) of the left lower lobe, which is located on the anteromedial aspect of the lung base, resting on the diaphragm.

• Branching pattern: The branching pattern can be variable. In some individuals, the anterior basal segmental artery may share a common trunk with the medial basal segmental artery (anteromedial basal artery), reflecting the fact that in the left lung, the medial basal and anterior basal segments are often fused into a single anteromedial basal segment (S VII+VIII).