Variations in the origin of profunda femoris and circumflex femoral arteries: A cadaveric study

Introduction: Profunda femoris artery (PFA) normally originates from posterolateral aspect of femoral artery and circumflex arteries arise from profunda femoris artery near its origin. As femoral artery (FA) & PFA are commonly assessed for various procedures for diagnosis and treatment for many diseases, knowledge of its course and branching pattern is very important for clinicians to prevent complications. Methods: The present study was conducted on 38 thighs. The origin, diameter at the point of origin, branching pattern of profunda femoris and circumflex femoral arteries were observed and their distances from mid inguinal point (MIP) was measured and recorded. Results: In 100% cases on both right and left side PFA was arising from FA. The site of origin of PFA was maximally (63.16%) found on posterior surface of FA. The mean distance of origin of PFA was 39.55 mm. In majority of cases, lateral & medial circumflex arteries were originating from PFA i.e. 84.21% and 73.68% respectively and the mean distance from MIP was 52.27 mm and 42.62 mm respectively. The lateral circumflex artery was arising from FA on right side in 22.23% while on left side in 10% cases. The medial circumflex artery was arising directly from FA on right side in 33.33% and on left side in 20% cases. Conclusion: In present study, the most common site of origin of the PFA was from posterior side of FA. The origin of the PFA observed was slightly proximal than noted in other studies. However, the left profunda femoris originates more distally than the right. Lateral & medial circumflex arteries commonly originated from the PFA artery close to its origin. This knowledge is very valuable in preventing injury to these vessels during different procedures.