Vessel
Internal iliac artery
Pelvic supply with branches beyond the pelvic cavity
High-yield
The posterior division usually gives iliolumbar, lateral sacral and superior gluteal arteries. Most visceral branches belong to the anterior division.
Overview
At the common iliac bifurcation, the internal iliac turns toward the lesser pelvis. Its branches reach the pelvic organs and walls; others leave through the sciatic foramina to supply the buttock and perineum. An anterior and a posterior division are the usual organizing pattern, although individual branches frequently share trunks or arise differently.
Reference facts
- Origin
- One of the two terminal branches of the common iliac artery.
- Course
- Passes posteromedially into the lesser pelvis and usually separates into anterior and posterior divisions near the greater sciatic foramen.
- Branches
- Posterior: iliolumbar, lateral sacral and superior gluteal. Anterior branches include vesical, obturator, internal pudendal, inferior gluteal and variable rectal and reproductive-organ arteries.
- Supplies
- Most pelvic viscera, pelvic wall muscles, the gluteal region and perineum; some branches also contribute to the medial thigh.
Clinical correlation
Major pelvic bleeding may involve internal iliac branches. Their extensive collateral connections help explain why specialist embolization or arterial ligation can control hemorrhage while some distal perfusion persists; the collateral supply does not eliminate ischemic risk.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the internal iliac artery originate?
The internal iliac artery arises from the one of the two terminal branches of the common iliac artery.
What does the internal iliac artery supply?
Most pelvic viscera, pelvic wall muscles, the gluteal region and perineum; some branches also contribute to the medial thigh.
What are the branches of the internal iliac artery?
Posterior: iliolumbar, lateral sacral and superior gluteal. Anterior branches include vesical, obturator, internal pudendal, inferior gluteal and variable rectal and reproductive-organ arteries.
What is the course of the internal iliac artery?
Passes posteromedially into the lesser pelvis and usually separates into anterior and posterior divisions near the greater sciatic foramen.