The term "arteria iliaca interna" refers to one of the main arteries in the human body. Specifically, it is an artery located in the pelvic region, which is also known as the internal iliac artery. This artery arises from the common iliac artery, which is a major blood vessel that is responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the lower limbs.
The arteria iliaca interna is a bilateral artery, meaning that there is one on both the left and right sides of the body. It plays a crucial role in the circulation of blood to the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum in females, and the bladder, prostate, and rectum in males. It also provides blood to the gluteal region, external genitalia, and part of the thigh.
The arteria iliaca interna gives rise to numerous branches that supply blood to various structures in the pelvic region. These branches include the superior gluteal artery, inferior gluteal artery, obturator artery, internal pudendal artery, and uterine artery or middle rectal artery in females, among others.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the arteria iliaca interna is vital for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating various conditions, such as pelvic fractures, pelvic tumors, and vascular diseases that may affect the pelvic organs.
