Genicular artery

Genicular artery is a term used in anatomy to refer to a group of arteries in the knee (the knee joint). These arteries are branches of the popliteal artery and are responsible for supplying blood to the structures of the knee joint.

Structure

The genicular arteries are a group of six small arteries that surround the knee joint. These arteries are:

• Superior medial genicular artery
• Superior lateral genicular artery
• Middle genicular artery
• Inferior medial genicular artery
• Inferior lateral genicular artery
• Recurrent genicular artery

Each of these arteries has a specific area of the knee that it supplies with blood.

Function

The primary function of the genicular arteries is to supply blood to the knee joint. This includes the bones, ligaments, and muscles that make up the knee joint. The genicular arteries also play a role in warming the knee joint, which is important for maintaining flexibility and function.

Clinical significance

Damage to the genicular arteries can lead to a lack of blood supply to the knee joint, which can cause pain and potentially lead to conditions such as osteoarthritis. In addition, the genicular arteries are often involved in surgical procedures involving the knee, such as knee replacement surgery.

See also

• Knee
• Popliteal artery
• Osteoarthritis
• Knee replacement

Genicular artery Resources
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