Medial Circumflex Femoral Artery

arteria circumflexa femoris medialis

The medial circumflex femoral artery deep branch is the primary blood supply to the femoral head in adults, ascending posterior to the femoral neck as the retinacular vessels. Femoral neck fractures interrupt these retinacular vessels, causing avascular necrosis of the femoral head — the risk is directly related to fracture displacement (Garden classification). Urgent anatomical reduction within 6 hours minimises retinacular vessel traction.

Region: Thigh

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Deep femoral artery (profunda femoris) — occasionally from the common femoral artery

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Garden I-II femoral neck fractures have low AVN risk (5-10%); Garden III-IV have 25-35% AVN risk from complete retinacular vessel disruption. In young patients, urgent reduction and internal fixation within 6 hours is standard to preserve the femoral head. In elderly patients, hemiarthroplasty or total hip replacement avoids the AVN risk by replacing the femoral head.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Femoral Head Avascular Necrosis

MCFA retinacular vessel disruption from displaced femoral neck fracture producing AVN of the femoral head — risk highest in Garden III-IV fractures — managed with urgent reduction or hip arthroplasty.