Inferior Gluteal ArteryEdit
The inferior gluteal artery is a major vessel of the pelvis and the gluteal region, supplying the muscles and joints of the buttock and nearby structures. It predominantly originates from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery and typically exits the pelvic cavity through the greater sciatic foramen inferior to the piriformis muscle, where it travels with accompanying nerves to reach its targets. Along its course, the artery forms an important part of the vascular network that supports movement and stability of the hip and thigh.
Anatomy
Origin
In most people, the inferior gluteal artery arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery as a sizable branch destined for the gluteal region. There is documented anatomic variation, with occasional contributions from nearby vessels or trunk variations, but the anterior division origin is the most common pattern.
Course and relations
After exiting the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen below the piriformis, the inferior gluteal artery travels toward the gluteal muscles. It generally runs deep to the gluteus maximus and gives off several muscular branches as well as perforating branches that contribute to the posterior compartment of the thigh. The artery is typically accompanied by paired nerves in the region, and its course places it in close proximity to structures such as the sciatic nerve and the posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh.
Branches and distribution
The inferior gluteal artery supplies: - muscular branches to the gluteus maximus and, to a lesser extent, neighboring gluteal and thigh muscles. - articular or periarticular branches to the hip joint. - perforating branches that perforate the gluteus maximus to reach deeper posterior thigh muscles.
These branches often form anastomoses with branches from the superior gluteal artery and the internal pudendal artery, contributing to a robust collateral network around the hip and buttock.
Variations
Anatomic variation is not uncommon. In addition to different origins, the inferior gluteal artery may show variation in its branching pattern and trajectory, which can be clinically relevant during pelvic, hip, or gluteal surgeries and during embolization procedures.
Clinical significance
Surgical relevance
Knowledge of the inferior gluteal artery’s course is essential for procedures involving the gluteal region, hip joint, or posterior thigh, including flap-based reconstructive techniques that rely on the artery for vascularized tissue. Injury to the vessel can lead to substantial bleeding, so surgeons and interventional radiologists plan approaches to minimize risk and preserve circulation to critical muscles.
Trauma and interventional radiology
In pelvic or perineal trauma, the inferior gluteal artery can be a source of life-threatening hemorrhage. In such cases, imaging-guided or endovascular techniques, including selective embolization, may be employed to control bleeding while preserving surrounding tissues. The artery’s collateral connections with the internal pudendal artery and other branches can influence both the pattern of injury and the strategy for management.
Imaging and diagnostics
Diagnostic imaging, especially CT angiography or MR angiography, can delineate the inferior gluteal artery’s course, branches, and any variations. Understanding its anatomy assists in planning surgeries, interpreting vascular studies, and guiding interventional procedures.
Pathology and variations in clinical practice
Pathologies involving the inferior gluteal artery, while uncommon, include aneurysm formation and flow-related complications in the setting of pelvic disease or trauma. Clinicians consider these possibilities when evaluating unexplained bleeding, hip or gluteal pain, or vascular symptoms in the buttock region.