Anatomy notes

Blood Supply of the Lower Limb

The blood supply to the lower limb is primarily derived from the femoral artery and its major branches, which provide oxygenated blood to various regions. Below is a summary of the key arteries involved in supplying the lower limb:

Major Arteries

• Femoral Artery : The main artery supplying the lower limb, which originates from the external iliac artery and travels down the thigh.
• Popliteal Artery : Continuation of the femoral artery as it passes behind the knee. It bifurcates into:
  • Anterior Tibial Artery : Supplies the anterior compartment of the leg and continues onto the dorsum of the foot.
  • Posterior Tibial Artery : Supplies the posterior compartment of the leg and branches into:
    • Medial Plantar Artery : Supplies the medial aspect of the foot.
    • Lateral Plantar Artery : Supplies the lateral aspect of the foot.
• Fibular (Peroneal) Artery : A branch of the posterior tibial artery that supplies the lateral compartment of the leg.

Blood Supply to Specific Regions

• Thigh : The profunda femoris (deep artery of the thigh) branches off the femoral artery and provides additional supply to the muscles and tissues in the thigh.
• Knee : The genicular branches from the popliteal artery supply the knee joint and surrounding structures.
• Foot : The dorsalis pedis artery, a continuation of the anterior tibial artery, provides blood to the dorsum of the foot. The plantar arteries (medial and lateral) supply blood to the plantar aspect.

Overview

The vascular supply of the lower limb is crucial for maintaining proper function and health of the tissues. Proper blood circulation ensures that muscles receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients, while also assisting in the removal of metabolic waste.