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Anatomy
Course
One of the terminal branches of the lateral circumflex artery. It branches from the main lateral circumflex after it passes deep to the sartorius and rectus femoris muscles. It ascends laterally, beneath the tensor fasciae latae muscle, and towards the hip joint. It joins with the medial circumflex femoral artery.
Supply
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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