Cruciate anastomosis

Cruciate anastomosis is a network of arteries in the human body that provides collateral circulation to the thigh and knee. It is named for its cross-shaped arrangement and is formed by the union of branches from four major arteries: the inferior gluteal artery, the profunda femoris artery, the femoral artery, and the popliteal artery.

Anatomy

The cruciate anastomosis is located in the upper part of the posterior thigh, near the hip joint. It is formed by the anastomosis of four arteries:

• The inferior gluteal artery, which arises from the internal iliac artery and supplies the gluteal muscles.
• The profunda femoris artery, a branch of the femoral artery, which supplies the adductor muscles of the thigh.
• The femoral artery, which is the main artery of the thigh and supplies the quadriceps femoris and other muscles of the anterior thigh.
• The popliteal artery, which is a continuation of the femoral artery and supplies the knee joint and muscles of the lower leg.

These arteries give off branches that meet and form a network, providing a backup route for blood flow in case of blockage or injury to one of the arteries.

Clinical significance

The cruciate anastomosis plays a crucial role in maintaining blood supply to the lower limb, especially during hip joint replacement surgery or in cases of arterial occlusion. If the femoral artery is blocked, blood can still reach the lower limb through the cruciate anastomosis. This collateral circulation can help prevent ischemia and necrosis of the tissues in the lower limb.

See also

• Arterial anastomosis
• Collateral circulation
• Lower limb anatomy