Femoral artery
Arteria femoralis
Continuation of the external iliac artery as it passes deep to the inguinal ligament at the mid-inguinal point. It descends through the femoral triangle and adductor canal, giving off the profunda femoris (deep femoral) artery. It passes through the adductor hiatus to become the popliteal artery.
| Type | Vessel |
| Body System | Cardiovascular |
| Body Region | Thigh |
| Parent Structure | artery |
| Latin Name | Arteria femoralis |
| FMA ID | 70248 |
Function
The main arterial supply to the lower limb. Provides blood to the thigh muscles and continues as the popliteal artery to supply the leg and foot.
Clinical Significance
Femoral artery access is used for cardiac catheterization and angiography. Femoral artery pseudoaneurysm is a complication of catheterization. The femoral pulse is palpated at the mid-inguinal point. Peripheral artery disease commonly affects the femoral vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Structures
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