Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026

04:57
Controlled Reversible Visceral Arterial Ischemia, Venous Congestion and Combined Malperfusion via Midline Laparotomy in Rats
Published on: July 5, 2024
Obturator artery revisited.
José R Sañudo1, Rosa Mirapeix, Marc Rodriguez-Niedenführ
1Human Anatomy and Embryology I Department, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
International Urogynecology Journal
|June 10, 2011
Summary
The obturator artery (OA) typically originates from a single source, but variations exist. Understanding these anatomical differences is crucial for surgical safety.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical studies
- Vascular anatomy
- Surgical anatomy
Background:
- The obturator artery (OA) is a key vessel in the pelvic region.
- Variations in OA origin and course can impact surgical procedures.
- A unified classification for OA variability is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the variability of the obturator artery (OA).
- To unify existing criteria for OA classification.
- To propose a simple classification of OA for clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 119 adult human embalmed cadavers.
- Study of OA origin and course relative to iliac and epigastric arteries.
- Statistical analysis using Chi-squared and t-tests (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- A single origin of the OA was observed in 96.55% of cases.
- Double or triple origins of the OA were rare (3.02% and 0.43%, respectively).
- The single origin was further subclassified into six types; 58.93% showed symmetrical patterns.
Conclusions:
- Nearly 31% of OAs traverse the superior pubic ramus.
- This anatomical course presents an elevated risk during specific surgical interventions.
- A clear classification aids in anticipating and mitigating surgical risks.
Related Concept Videos
Abdominal Aorta
Once the aorta traverses the diaphragmatic plane at the aortic hiatus, it is known as the abdominal aorta. This anatomical structure is positioned leftward of the spinal column, encased within a cocoon of adipose tissue behind the peritoneal cavity. It terminates at the L4 vertebra, where it splits into the common iliac arteries. Prior to this bifurcation, the abdominal aorta gives rise to several vital branches.
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
Arteries of Lower Limbs
The external iliac artery transitions out of the body cavity, entering the femoral region of the lower leg, and is renamed the femoral artery at the point where it traverses the body wall. This artery is responsible for the distribution of blood to the thigh's deep muscles and the skin's ventral and lateral regions, achieved through several minor branches and the lateral deep femoral artery, which also spawns a lateral circumflex artery. The knee area receives blood from the genicular artery,...
Anatomy of the Genitourinary System II: Bladder and Urethra
The lower urinary system consists of the urinary bladder and urethra, which are essential in storing and expelling urine from the body. Together with the internal and external sphincters, these structures work together to regulate urination effectively.Anatomy of the BladderThe urinary bladder is a muscular, stretchable organ behind the pubic bone and in front of the rectum. In females, the bladder is positioned anterior to the vagina and inferior to the uterus, while in males, it is located...
Arteries of the Upper Limbs
The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. This artery is critical for supplying blood to the shoulder area, including the head of the humerus, through the humeral circumflex arteries. As the vessel continues into the upper arm or brachium, it becomes the brachial artery. This artery plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into several branches. These branches include the deep...

