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External Iliac Artery

arteria iliaca externa

The external iliac artery is the direct continuation of the common iliac artery to the femoral artery, delivering blood to the lower limb. Its two branches arise near the inguinal ligament. The inferior epigastric artery is the landmark for laparoscopic trocar placement — trocars placed lateral to this vessel avoid injury. The external iliac artery is commonly used for vascular access in cadaveric kidney transplantation, anastomosing the donor renal artery to the recipient external iliac.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Common iliac artery bifurcation at L5-S1

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Iliac artery occlusive disease (Leriche syndrome when bilateral) produces buttock and thigh claudication, impotence, and absent femoral pulses from aortoiliac atherosclerosis. Endovascular stenting of iliac artery stenosis is the preferred treatment for single-segment disease. The external iliac vein and femoral nerve lie adjacent to the external iliac artery and must be protected during retroperitoneal pelvic lymphadenectomy.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Leriche Syndrome

Bilateral aortoiliac occlusive disease producing buttock claudication, impotence, and absent femoral pulses, managed with aortobifemoral bypass or endovascular revascularisation.