Inferior vesical artery
The inferior vesical artery is an artery in the pelvis that supplies blood to the urinary bladder, prostate, and seminal vesicles. It is a branch of the internal iliac artery.
Anatomy[edit]
The inferior vesical artery typically arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery. It descends to the base of the urinary bladder, where it gives off branches to supply the bladder, prostate, and seminal vesicles. In males, it also gives rise to the prostatic artery and the artery of the ductus deferens.
Function[edit]
The primary function of the inferior vesical artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the lower part of the urinary bladder, the prostate, and the seminal vesicles. This is crucial for the proper functioning of these organs.
Clinical significance[edit]
The inferior vesical artery is of clinical importance in various surgical procedures involving the pelvis, such as prostatectomy and surgeries for bladder cancer. Damage to this artery can lead to significant bleeding and complications.
See also[edit]
- Internal iliac artery
- Urinary bladder
- Prostate
- Seminal vesicles
- Prostatic artery
- Artery of the ductus deferens
References[edit]