Anatomy
Course
Arises from the deep femoral artery, just distal to the inguinal ligament. It travels laterally, passing behind the sartorius and rectus femoris muscles, where it divides into terminal branches.
Supply
The ascending branch of the lateral circumflex artery supplies the head and neck of the femur, as it anastomoses with the medial circumflex artery.
Clinical
The lateral circumflex artery and its branches are clinically relevant as it forms part of the cruciate anastomosis. Should a blockage arise between the internal iliac artery and the femoral artery, blood can reach the knee and lower leg via the cruciate anastomosis.
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