Superficial branch of medial circumflex femoral artery

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Latin	ramus superficialis arteriae circumflexae femoris medialis

The superficial branch of the medial circumflex femoral artery is a small arterial branch that arises from the medial circumflex femoral artery, which is a key vessel supplying blood to the upper thigh and hip region. This branch plays a role in the vascularization of the surrounding soft tissues and contributes to the blood supply of the hip joint.

Anatomy

The medial circumflex femoral artery is a branch of the deep artery of the thigh (profunda femoris artery) or sometimes directly from the femoral artery. It travels medially and posteriorly around the femur, supplying blood to the muscles and structures in the hip region.

The superficial branch of the medial circumflex femoral artery specifically supplies the superficial tissues in the medial aspect of the thigh. It is one of the several branches that ensure adequate blood supply to the hip joint, which is crucial for maintaining joint health and function.

Function

The primary function of the superficial branch of the medial circumflex femoral artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the superficial tissues of the medial thigh. This includes the skin and subcutaneous tissues, as well as contributing to the vascular network that supports the hip joint.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy of the superficial branch of the medial circumflex femoral artery is important in surgical procedures involving the hip and thigh. Injury to this artery can lead to complications such as hematoma or inadequate blood supply to the hip joint, potentially resulting in avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

In orthopedic surgeries, such as hip replacement or repair of hip fractures, care must be taken to preserve the blood supply from the medial circumflex femoral artery and its branches to prevent postoperative complications.

Also see

• Medial circumflex femoral artery
• Deep artery of the thigh
• Femoral artery
• Hip joint
• Avascular necrosis