The inferior epigastric artery is an important landmark in inguinal hernia surgery. Which surface marking best describes its course?
- A From the femoral artery to the umbilicus
- B From the internal iliac artery, ascending anterior to the psoas major
- C From the external iliac artery, coursing superomedially toward the umbilicus deep to the rectus abdominis ✓
- D From the common iliac artery, running lateral to the deep inguinal ring
Correct answer: C. From the external iliac artery, coursing superomedially toward the umbilicus deep to the rectus abdominis
Explanation
The inferior epigastric artery arises from the external iliac artery just above the inguinal ligament. It passes superomedially toward the umbilicus, running deep to the rectus abdominis. It forms the lateral boundary of Hesselbach's triangle and is the key landmark differentiating direct from indirect inguinal hernias.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.