External circumflex artery

External circumflex artery

The external circumflex artery is a branch of the femoral artery.

The external circumflex artery (or lateral circumflex femoral artery) is a large branch of the femoral artery. It arises from the lateral side of the femoral artery, runs laterally, and then ascends to the hip and thigh.

Structure

The external circumflex artery divides into three branches: ascending, transverse, and descending. The ascending branch supplies the iliacus muscle, the transverse branch supplies the vastus lateralis muscle, and the descending branch supplies the quadriceps femoris muscle.

Function

The external circumflex artery supplies blood to the upper and middle parts of the gluteus maximus muscle, the tensor fasciae latae muscle, and the hip joint. It also gives off cutaneous branches to the skin over the gluteal region.

Clinical significance

The external circumflex artery is an important artery in the lower limb. It is often involved in peripheral artery diseases and can be used in angiographic procedures.

See also

• Femoral artery
• Internal circumflex artery
• Deep artery of thigh