Anatomy
Course
A terminal branch of the posterior trunk of the internal iliac artery. It travels posteriorly, passing through the space between the lumbosacral trunk and the anterior ramus of spinal nerve S1.
It exits the pelvic cavity by passing through the greater sciatic foramen. On leaving the greater sciatic foramen it divides into a superficial and a deep branch. Its branches then spread throughout the gluteal region.
Supply
Supplies blood to skin and muscle in the gluteal region, as well as some of the muscles on the posterior pelvic wall.
Clinical
Due to its location, the superior gluteal artery is at risk during surgical procedures on the greater sciatic foramen.
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