Internal Iliac Artery
The internal iliac artery, also known as the hypogastric artery, is a major branch of the common iliac artery that supplies blood to the pelvis, pelvic organs, and the gluteal region. It arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery.
Anatomy
The internal iliac artery is about 4 cm in length and descends into the pelvis from its origin at the bifurcation of the common iliac artery. It runs on the medial side of the psoas major muscle, passing posterior to the ureter, and anterior to the internal iliac vein.
Branches
The internal iliac artery gives rise to several branches that supply various structures in the pelvis. These branches include:
Superior gluteal artery: This artery exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen and supplies the gluteal muscles.
Inferior gluteal artery: This artery also exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen and supplies the gluteal muscles, predominantly the inferior fibers of the gluteus maximus muscle.
Internal pudendal artery: This artery supplies the perineum, external genitalia, and the lower part of the anal canal. It also gives off a branch called the inferior rectal artery, which supplies the anal canal and the anal sphincter muscles.
Obturator artery: This artery passes through the obturator canal and supplies the adductor muscles of the thigh, along with contributing to the blood supply of the hip joint.
Umbilical artery: In the fetal circulation, the umbilical artery carries deoxygenated blood away from the fetus to the placenta. However, in adults, the umbilical artery is not functional and typically gives rise to small branches.
Uterine artery: In females, this artery arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery and supplies blood to the uterus, cervix, and some parts of the vagina.
Middle rectal artery: This artery supplies the rectum and contributes to the blood supply of the anal canal.
Internal iliac vein: The internal iliac artery accompanies its corresponding vein, which is responsible for draining the blood from the structures supplied by the artery.
Clinical Significance
The internal iliac artery may be involved in various pathological conditions, including atherosclerosis, aneurysms, pelvic bleeding, and tumors. In certain cases, surgical intervention may be required to address these issues, such as embolization, stenting, or ligation of the artery.
Understanding the anatomy and functions of the internal iliac artery is crucial in clinical practice, as it enables healthcare professionals to diagnose and manage pelvic disorders effectively.