Diagrams: limb

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Illustration

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The arterial network of the lower limb is a complex and vital system that ensures blood supply to the muscles, bones, and skin of the thigh, leg, and foot. Let’s delve into the intricate anatomy of these arteries, their branches, and their clinical significance.

## 1. Femoral Artery: The Main Artery of the Lower Limb
The femoral artery is the primary conduit for blood flow to the lower limb. It originates as a continuation of the external iliac artery, which itself arises from the abdominal aorta. The transition from external iliac to femoral artery occurs as it passes beneath the inguinal ligament and enters the femoral triangle. Within this triangular space, the profunda femoris artery branches off from the posterolateral aspect of the femoral artery. Let’s explore its course and branches:

### 1.1. Profunda Femoris Artery Branches
1. Perforating Branches: These three or four arteries perforate the adductor magnus muscle, contributing to the blood supply of the medial and posterior thigh muscles.
2. Lateral Femoral Circumflex Artery: Wrapping around the anterior and lateral aspects of the femur, this artery supplies some of the muscles on the lateral side of the thigh.
3. Medial Femoral Circumflex Artery: Encircling the posterior side of the femur, it provides blood to the femoral neck and head. In cases of femoral neck fractures, damage to this artery can lead to avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

After exiting the femoral triangle, the femoral artery continues down the anterior aspect of the thigh, traversing a tunnel known as the adductor canal. Along its descent, the artery nourishes the anterior thigh muscles. As it reaches the adductor hiatus, an opening in the adductor magnus, the femoral artery transitions into the popliteal artery within the posterior compartment of the thigh, proximal to the knee.

### 1.2. Clinical Relevance: Accessing the Femoral Artery
The superficial location of the femoral artery within the femoral triangle makes it easily accessible. Clinicians utilize this accessibility for various procedures. Notably, coronary angiography involves catheterizing the femoral artery with a thin tube. This tube is threaded through the external iliac artery, common iliac artery, aorta, and into the coronary vessels. Radio-opaque dye injected into the coronary vessels allows visualization of any wall thickening or blockages via X-ray.

## 2. Other Arteries of the Thigh
In addition to the femoral artery, several other vessels contribute to the lower limb’s blood supply:

### 2.1. Obturator Artery
The obturator artery arises from the internal iliac artery within the pelvic region. Descending through the obturator canal, it enters the medial thigh. The obturator artery bifurcates into two branches:

1. Anterior Branch: Supplies the adductor muscles of the thigh.
2. Posterior Branch: Provides blood to the hip joint and adjacent structures.

## 3. Beyond the Thigh: Popliteal Artery and More
As the femoral artery transitions into the popliteal artery, it continues its journey. The popliteal artery then divides into the anterior tibial artery and the posterior tibial artery. These arteries extend toward the foot, ensuring blood supply to the anterior and posterior compartments of the leg, respectively.

In summary, the arteries of the lower limb form a sophisticated network, sustaining the vitality of our legs. Their intricate pathways and clinical implications underscore their importance in maintaining optimal function and health.

: TeachMeAnatomy. “Arteries of the Lower Limb – Thigh – Leg – Foot.” [source](https://teachmeanatomy.info/lower-limb/vessels/arterial-supply/)
: Biology LibreTexts. “18.6: Arteries of the Lower Limb.” [source](https://bio.libretexts.org/Courses/West_Hills_College_-_Lemoore/Human_Anatomy_Laboratory_Manual_%28Hartline%29/18%3A_Cardiovascular_System_-_The_Blood_Vessels/18.06%3A_Arteries_of_the_Lower_Limb)
: Medmastery. “Basic Anatomy of the Lower Extremity Arteries.” [source](https://www.medmastery.com/guides/ultrasound-clinical-guide-arteries-legs/basic-anatomy-lower-extremity-arteries)
: Anatomy.app. “Blood Supply of Lower Limb | Arteries of the Lower Limb.” [source](https://anatomy

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Illustration Diagram - Arteries Of The Lower Limb Illustration Chart - Human anatomy diagrams and charts explained. This anatomy system diagram depicts Arteries Of The Lower Limb Illustration with parts and labels. Best diagram to help learn about health, human body and medicine.

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Illustration

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Representation

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The intricate network of arteries in the lower limb plays a crucial role in supplying oxygenated blood to the muscles, bones, and skin. lower limb arteries, exploring their origins, pathways, and branches.

## Femoral Artery: The Lifeline of the Lower Extremity

The femoral artery is the largest and most significant conduit, bringing oxygenated blood to the entire lower limb. It emerges as a continuation of the external iliac artery, which itself arises from the abdominal aorta. As the external iliac artery crosses under the inguinal ligament, it transforms into the femoral artery within the femoral triangle. This critical vessel supplies blood to the thigh, knee, and leg regions.

### Branches of the Femoral Artery:

1. Superficial Epigastric Artery: This branch courses superficially over the anterior abdominal wall.
2. Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery: It travels laterally across the inguinal ligament, nourishing the skin and muscles.
3. Superficial External Pudendal Artery: Responsible for blood supply to the external genitalia.
4. Deep External Pudendal Artery: Supplies the perineum.
5. Deep Femoral Artery (Profunda Femoris): A major branch that provides blood to the thigh muscles.
6. Descending Genicular Artery: This vessel contributes to the blood supply of the knee joint.

## Arteries of the Hip and Thigh:

1. Gluteal Arteries (Superior and Inferior): These arteries serve the gluteal muscles and the hip joint.
2. Obturator Artery: It accompanies the obturator nerve and supplies the adductor muscles.
3. Deep Femoral Artery (Profunda Femoris): In addition to its role in the thigh, it gives off perforating branches that pierce the adductor magnus muscle.
4. Descending Genicular Arteries: These branches participate in the formation of the genicular anastomosis, ensuring adequate blood supply to the knee joint.

## Arteries of the Knee and Leg:

1. Popliteal Artery: The continuation of the femoral artery, it courses behind the knee joint. It gives rise to several important branches:
– Superior Genicular Arteries (Medial and Lateral): These nourish the femur and knee joint.
– Inferior Genicular Arteries (Medial and Lateral): They contribute to the genicular anastomosis.
– Anterior Tibial Artery: Descends along the anterior leg, supplying the muscles and skin.
– Posterior Tibial Artery: Runs posteriorly, providing blood to the calf muscles.
– Anterior Malleolar Arteries (Medial and Lateral): These vessels serve the ankle joint and surrounding structures.
– Fibular (Peroneal) Arteries: Supply the lateral leg muscles.

## Arteries of the Ankle and Foot:

1. Malleolar Arteries (Anterior and Posterior): These vessels encircle the ankle joint.
2. Dorsalis Pedis Artery (Dorsal Artery of the Foot): It runs along the dorsum of the foot, ensuring blood supply to the toes.
3. Plantar Arteries (Medial and Lateral): These arteries form the plantar arch, nourishing the sole of the foot.
4. Tarsal Arteries (Medial and Lateral): They supply the tarsal bones.
5. Arcuate Artery: An essential component of the plantar arch.
6. Dorsal Metatarsal Arteries: These vessels extend to the toes.
7. Deep Plantar Arch: Ensures robust blood flow to the plantar structures.
8. Plantar Metatarsal Arteries: They contribute to the metatarsal region.

In summary, the intricate arterial network of the lower limb orchestrates the symphony of movement, allowing us to stand, walk, and leap. Understanding this vascular masterpiece enhances our appreciation for the remarkable coordination required to keep our legs in motion.

: [Kenhub – Lower Limb Arteries and Nerves](https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/lower-extremities-arteries-and-nerves)
: [NY Times – How Tall Is Mount Everest? For Nepal, ItÂ’s a Touchy Question](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/03/world/asia/mount-everest-how-tall-nepal.html)
: [Wikipedia – Mount Everest](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Everest)

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Representation Diagram - Arteries Of The Lower Limb Representation Chart - Human anatomy diagrams and charts explained. This anatomy system diagram depicts Arteries Of The Lower Limb Representation with parts and labels. Best diagram to help learn about health, human body and medicine.

Arteries Of The Lower Limb Representation