Arteries of the Sigmoid Colon

The arteries of the sigmoid colon are branches from the abdominal aorta, extending into the retroperitoneal space (the internal musculoskeletal space formed at the back by the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae, at the front by the peritoneum and at the back by the pelvic muscles). Next, the artery descends down the anterior edge of the rectus abdominis muscle and enters the pelvic cavity through a small hole in the muscle layer. They supply blood to the walls, as well as the liver. They provide arterial blood flow, which carries oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.