Vessel
Common iliac artery
Paired arterial links from the aorta to pelvis and lower limb
High-yield
The aortic bifurcation is usually near L4. Each common iliac then divides into internal and external iliac arteries near the sacroiliac joint.
Overview
Each common iliac artery carries blood away from the distal aorta toward the pelvic brim. Its internal branch serves mainly pelvic and gluteal territories; its external branch continues toward the lower limb.
Reference facts
- Origin
- One of the two terminal branches at the aortic bifurcation, usually near L4.
- Course
- Passes downward and laterally toward a division near the anterior aspect of the sacroiliac joint.
- Branches
- Internal iliac and external iliac arteries.
- Supplies
- Provides the main arterial connection to pelvic structures, gluteal tissues and the lower limb.
Clinical correlation
Aortoiliac obstruction can reduce both pelvic and lower-limb perfusion. Buttock or thigh claudication, reduced femoral pulses and erectile dysfunction form a classic clinical association, but the full combination is not always present.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the common iliac artery originate?
The common iliac artery arises from the one of the two terminal branches at the aortic bifurcation, usually near L4.
What does the common iliac artery supply?
The common iliac artery supplies the provides the main arterial connection to pelvic structures, gluteal tissues and the lower limb.
What are the branches of the common iliac artery?
Branches of the common iliac artery include the internal iliac and external iliac arteries.
What is the course of the common iliac artery?
Passes downward and laterally toward a division near the anterior aspect of the sacroiliac joint.