Internal iliac vessels

Internal iliac vessels

The internal iliac vessels are a group of arteries and veins that supply blood to the pelvic region, including the pelvic walls, pelvic organs, and the gluteal region. These vessels are crucial for the vascularization of the pelvis and play a significant role in various physiological processes.

Internal Iliac Artery

The internal iliac artery is a major artery that originates from the common iliac artery. It descends into the pelvis and divides into anterior and posterior divisions, each giving rise to several branches that supply different pelvic structures.

Branches of the Internal Iliac Artery

• Anterior Division:
  • Umbilical artery
  • Superior vesical artery
  • Inferior vesical artery
  • Middle rectal artery
  • Obturator artery
  • Internal pudendal artery
  • Inferior gluteal artery
• Posterior Division:
  • Iliolumbar artery
  • Lateral sacral artery
  • Superior gluteal artery

Internal Iliac Vein

The internal iliac vein accompanies the internal iliac artery and drains blood from the pelvic region. It collects blood from the pelvic organs, pelvic walls, and the gluteal region, and then joins the common iliac vein.

Tributaries of the Internal Iliac Vein

• Superior gluteal vein
• Inferior gluteal vein
• Internal pudendal vein
• Obturator vein
• Lateral sacral vein
• Middle rectal vein
• Vesical veins
• Uterine vein (in females)
• Vaginal vein (in females)
• Prostatic venous plexus (in males)

Clinical Significance

The internal iliac vessels are of great clinical importance due to their involvement in various medical conditions and surgical procedures. Conditions such as pelvic fractures, aneurysms, and arteriovenous malformations can affect these vessels. Additionally, they are often considered during pelvic surgeries and interventional radiology procedures.

Related Pages

• Common iliac artery
• Common iliac vein
• External iliac artery
• External iliac vein
• Pelvis
• Pelvic organs
• Gluteal region