Arteria iliolumbalis

Arteria iliolumbalis is a branch of the internal iliac artery that supplies blood to the iliac muscle and the lumbar region. It is one of the most significant arteries in the human body due to its role in the circulatory system.

Anatomy

The arteria iliolumbalis originates from the posterior division of the internal iliac artery. It travels posteriorly and laterally, passing over the iliolumbar ligament to reach the iliac muscle and the lumbar region. The artery then divides into two branches: the iliac branch and the lumbar branch.

The iliac branch supplies blood to the iliac muscle, which is a large muscle in the lower back. This muscle plays a crucial role in supporting the spine and aiding in movements such as bending and twisting.

The lumbar branch of the arteria iliolumbalis supplies blood to the lumbar region, which includes the lower part of the spine and the muscles surrounding it. This region is crucial for movements such as bending and lifting.

Clinical significance

Due to its role in supplying blood to the lower back, the arteria iliolumbalis is often involved in conditions that affect this area. For example, lumbar artery syndrome is a condition in which the lumbar branch of the arteria iliolumbalis becomes compressed, leading to symptoms such as lower back pain and muscle weakness.

In addition, the arteria iliolumbalis may be involved in surgical procedures that involve the lower back or the iliac muscle. For example, during a lumbar fusion, a surgical procedure used to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, the arteria iliolumbalis may need to be carefully navigated to avoid damage.

See also

• Internal iliac artery
• Iliac muscle
• Lumbar region
• Lumbar artery syndrome
• Lumbar fusion