Medial inferior genicular artery

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Medial Inferior Genicular Artery[edit | edit source]

The medial inferior genicular artery is a branch of the popliteal artery, which is located in the posterior region of the knee joint. It is responsible for supplying blood to various structures in the knee, including the ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The medial inferior genicular artery arises from the popliteal artery, which is the main artery of the posterior knee region. It typically originates just above the level of the knee joint. From its origin, it descends towards the medial side of the knee, passing through the joint capsule and surrounding structures.

As it courses downwards, the artery gives off several branches that supply blood to different structures in the knee. These branches include the superior medial genicular artery, the middle medial genicular artery, and the inferior medial genicular artery.

Function[edit | edit source]

The medial inferior genicular artery plays a crucial role in providing oxygenated blood to the structures of the knee joint. It supplies blood to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the area, ensuring their proper functioning and health.

The artery also helps in the removal of waste products and toxins from the knee joint. It carries away metabolic waste products, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid, from the tissues, helping to maintain a healthy environment within the knee.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The medial inferior genicular artery can be affected by various pathological conditions, leading to potential complications. One such condition is atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque within the arteries. Atherosclerosis can cause narrowing or blockage of the artery, leading to reduced blood flow to the knee joint. This can result in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

In some cases, injury or trauma to the knee can also damage the medial inferior genicular artery. This can lead to internal bleeding and compromise the blood supply to the knee structures. Prompt medical attention is necessary in such cases to prevent further complications.

References[edit | edit source]

1. Gray, H. (1918). Anatomy of the Human Body. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger. 2. Standring, S. (Ed.). (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice (41st ed.). London: Elsevier.

See Also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD