iliakarteriene

The common iliac arteries, or arteriæ iliacæ communes in Latin, are a pair of large arteries that arise from the bifurcation of the abdominal aorta. The abdominal aorta typically divides into the left and right common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. Each common iliac artery then travels downwards and laterally, diverging towards the iliac fossa.

The right and left common iliac arteries are roughly equal in size. They are relatively short, each measuring about 4-5 centimeters in length. The primary function of the common iliac arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the lower limbs and the pelvic region.

As they approach the pelvic brim, each common iliac artery bifurcates into two terminal branches: the external iliac artery and the internal iliac artery. The external iliac artery continues its course downwards and laterally, passing beneath the inguinal ligament to become the femoral artery, which is the main artery of the thigh and lower leg. The internal iliac artery, also known as the hypogastric artery, enters the pelvis and distributes blood to the pelvic organs, gluteal region, and thigh. The precise point of bifurcation can vary slightly between individuals.