External iliac artery

Definition

The external iliac artery is a major blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood to the lower limbs. It branches off from the common iliac artery and extends down into the leg, becoming the femoral artery.

Related terms

Common iliac artery: The primary arterial division in the pelvis that splits into the internal and external iliac arteries.

Femoral artery: The continuation of the external iliac artery after it passes under the inguinal ligament, supplying blood to the lower limb.

Circulatory Pathways:

The routes taken by blood as it moves through the body, including systemic and pulmonary circuits