Iliac vessel

Iliac Vessels

The iliac vessels are a group of large blood vessels that supply blood to the pelvis and lower limbs. They are part of the circulatory system and play a crucial role in the transportation of blood and nutrients throughout the body. The iliac vessels consist of the common iliac artery, the internal iliac artery, the external iliac artery, the common iliac vein, the internal iliac vein, and the external iliac vein.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The iliac vessels originate from the aorta, the main and largest artery in the human body. The aorta bifurcates into the left and right common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. Each common iliac artery then further divides into the internal and external iliac arteries.

The common iliac veins are formed by the union of the internal and external iliac veins. They unite to form the inferior vena cava, which carries deoxygenated blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart.

Function[edit | edit source]

The iliac vessels play a vital role in the circulatory system. The arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the pelvis and lower limbs, while the veins return deoxygenated blood back to the heart. They also play a significant role in the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of waste products from the body.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The iliac vessels are susceptible to various medical conditions. These include iliac artery aneurysm, iliac vein thrombosis, and iliac artery occlusion. These conditions can lead to serious complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.