Hypogastric artery

Hypogastric Artery

The hypogastric artery and its branches. (Hypogastric artery is an old term for internal iliac artery.)

The Hypogastric Artery, also known as the Internal Iliac Artery, is a major artery in the pelvis. It originates from the Common Iliac Artery, which splits into the Hypogastric Artery and the External Iliac Artery. The Hypogastric Artery supplies blood to the pelvic region, including the bladder, rectum, and genital organs.

Structure

The Hypogastric Artery is a paired structure, with one artery located on each side of the body. It arises from the bifurcation of the Common Iliac Artery at the level of the sacroiliac joint. The artery then travels downwards and laterally in the pelvis, giving off several branches to supply various pelvic organs.

Branches

The Hypogastric Artery gives off several branches, including:

• Umbilical Artery
• Obturator Artery
• Inferior Vesical Artery
• Middle Rectal Artery
• Internal Pudendal Artery
• Inferior Gluteal Artery

Each of these branches supplies blood to a specific region or organ within the pelvis.

Clinical Significance

The Hypogastric Artery is of clinical significance due to its role in supplying blood to the pelvic organs. Damage to this artery can result in significant blood loss and potentially life-threatening complications. It is also a key landmark in various surgical procedures involving the pelvis.

See Also

• Common Iliac Artery
• External Iliac Artery
• Pelvis