Cadaveric Study of Profunda Femoris Artery with Some Unique Variations

Background: Profunda femoris artery is the largest branch of femoral artery and chief supply of the thigh. It is useful for various clinical procedures like arteriography, ultrasonography and Doppler imaging and haemodialysis. Hence, accurate anatomical knowledge is very important for the clinicians.

Materials and methods: Thirty three properly embalmed cadavers (17 males and 16 females) were selected for the study. Femoral artery, Profunda femoris artery and its branches were exposed and their distances of origin were measured.

Results: In present study of profunda femoris artery, we found posterolateral and lateral aspect of origin was common (71.21%) than posterior and posteromedial aspect of origin (24.24%). The site of origin of profunda femoris artery was between 21-40 mm on right side and 11-40 mm on left side. In 14 limbs (21.21%), we found high origin of profunda femoris artery (distance < 10mm). In two limbs (3.03%) Profunda femoris artery was originating from medial side of femoral artery and it coursed superficial to femoral vein. As per various literatures this is rare. In one female cadaver, on left side, we noted high origin (5mm away from mid inguinal point) of profunda femoris artery and site of origin was from anterolateral aspect of femoral artery and all the superficial branches of thigh took origin from it, while on right side of same cadaver findings were normal. In 13 limbs (19.69%) profunda femoris artery took origin as a common stem along with one of circumflex arteries while in three limbs (4.54%) trifurcation was observed, that is origin of profunda femoris and two circumflex arteries from single site. In four limbs (6.06%), superficial branches of femoral artery took origin from profunda femoris artery instead of femoral artery.

Conclusion: In present study posterolateral and lateral side of origin is noted as common site of origin of profunda femoris artery. Rare variation like medial side origin of profunda Femoris artery was observed and it coursed on femoral vein. Very high incidence of high level of origin of profunda femoris artery was found. In one of the high origin limb profunda femoris artery originated from anterolateral side and all superficial branches of thigh took origin from it. Such variation is unique. Hence, this study will help the clinicians to avoid iatrogenic complications and also help them in various clinical procedures like puncture of femoral artery for interventional radiology.