Which vessels are considered high resistive among abdominal arteries?

The correct identification of high-resistive vessels among the abdominal arteries is based on their normal physiological function and blood flow characteristics. The aorta and fasting superior mesenteric artery (SMA) are considered high resistive because they supply blood to non-vital organs or those that have variable blood flow requirements.

The aorta serves as the main arterial conduit for blood flow throughout the body and typically exhibits high resistance when blood flow is not needed, such as during fasting where demand is lower. The fasting SMA supplies the intestines, which during fasting have a lower metabolic demand, resulting in higher resistance in the SMA.

In contrast, the celiac artery and renal arteries typically demonstrate lower resistance profiles due to their roles in supplying vital organs that require a continuous and steady blood supply. The renal arteries, in particular, provide blood flow to the kidneys, which are metabolically active and need consistent perfusion to function effectively.

The hepatic and splenic arteries also serve vital organs—the liver and spleen—which are continuously active, and thus present with lower resistive characteristics. The renal and splenic arteries would similarly not be classified as high resistive because they supply organs that do not have intermittent blood flow needs.

Understanding these physiological principles is essential in ultrasound vascular