Which vessel is typically seen with an echogenic ring of fat when imaging the upper...

The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is typically visualized surrounded by an echogenic fat pad in the mesentery, producing a characteristic "echogenic ring" appearance on ultrasound. This is a helpful landmark for identifying the SMA in the transverse abdominal aortic plane.

According to Rumack’s Diagnostic Ultrasound:

“The superior mesenteric artery is often seen as a round anechoic structure surrounded by echogenic fat at its origin from the anterior aorta.”