internal iliac artery branches

3 min read 15-03-2025

The internal iliac artery, also known as the hypogastric artery, is a vital blood vessel supplying the pelvic organs and buttocks. Understanding its branching pattern is crucial for surgeons, radiologists, and anyone studying pelvic anatomy. This article provides a detailed overview of the internal iliac artery branches, categorized for clarity.

Anterior Division Branches of the Internal Iliac Artery

The anterior division of the internal iliac artery primarily supplies the pelvic viscera and the overlying abdominal wall. Its branches are numerous and interconnected, ensuring robust blood supply to this region.

1. Umbilical Artery

The umbilical artery, originating from the anterior division, is a remnant from fetal circulation. In adults, the proximal portion remains patent, forming the superior vesical artery supplying the bladder. The distal portion is obliterated, forming the medial umbilical ligament.

2. Superior Vesical Artery

As mentioned above, the superior vesical artery is a continuation of the umbilical artery. It provides blood to the superior aspect of the urinary bladder.

3. Inferior Vesical Artery

The inferior vesical artery supplies the lower portion of the urinary bladder and the prostate in males or the vagina in females.

4. Middle Rectal Artery

This artery supplies blood to the rectum and the surrounding tissues.

5. Uterine Artery (Females)

In females, the uterine artery is a significant branch, providing blood to the uterus and vagina. Its tortuous course is important surgically.

6. Vaginal Artery (Females)

The vaginal artery contributes to the blood supply of the vagina, often anastomosing with branches from the uterine and internal pudendal arteries.

7. Obturator Artery

The obturator artery passes through the obturator canal to supply the medial compartment of the thigh. It also contributes to the blood supply of the hip joint.

8. Internal Pudendal Artery

This artery exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen and then re-enters through the lesser sciatic foramen. It provides blood supply to the external genitalia, perineum, and anal canal.

9. Inferior Gluteal Artery

The inferior gluteal artery exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen to supply the gluteal muscles and skin of the buttock.

Posterior Division Branches of the Internal Iliac Artery

The posterior division of the internal iliac artery mainly supplies the buttock, pelvic wall, and hip joint. These branches are typically larger than those of the anterior division.

1. Iliolumbar Artery

The iliolumbar artery ascends to supply the iliacus muscle and the lumbar spine. It contributes significantly to the blood supply of these regions.

2. Lateral Sacral Arteries

These arteries descend along the sacrum, supplying the sacral canal and surrounding structures.

3. Superior Gluteal Artery

The superior gluteal artery is the largest branch of the internal iliac artery. It exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen to supply the gluteal muscles and hip joint. Its large size reflects the significant muscle mass it supports.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the internal iliac artery branches is crucial in various clinical settings. For example, surgeons need precise knowledge of these branches during pelvic surgeries to minimize bleeding and avoid injury to adjacent structures. Radiologists utilize this anatomical knowledge for accurate interpretation of angiograms and other imaging studies. Embolization procedures targeting specific branches are commonly used to control bleeding or treat certain tumors.

Variations in Branching Pattern

It's important to note that variations in the branching pattern of the internal iliac artery are common. While the above description represents a typical pattern, individual anatomy can differ. These variations are important to consider during surgical procedures.

Conclusion

The internal iliac artery and its branches form a complex network crucial for supplying blood to the pelvic organs, buttocks, and surrounding structures. A thorough understanding of this vascular anatomy is essential for practitioners across various medical specialties. This detailed overview should provide a solid foundation for further exploration of this intricate system. Remember to consult anatomical atlases and textbooks for detailed visual representations and further in-depth information.