The left gastric artery is a blood vessel that branches from the celiac trunk, which supplies oxygenated blood to the stomach. It primarily serves the lesser curvature of the stomach, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the gastric tissues. This artery also has connections with the right gastric artery, allowing for collateral circulation. Understanding the anatomy of the left gastric artery is important in surgical procedures involving the stomach, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining blood flow during operations.