The cruciate anastomosis around the hip joint involves four arteries. Which artery is NOT part of the cruciate anastomosis?

• A First perforating branch of profunda femoris
• B Inferior gluteal artery
• C Medial circumflex femoral artery
• D Obturator artery ✓

Explanation

The cruciate anastomosis at the upper thigh/gluteal region comprises: (1) inferior gluteal artery (descending branch), (2) medial circumflex femoral artery (transverse branch), (3) lateral circumflex femoral artery (transverse branch), and (4) first perforating branch of profunda femoris (ascending branch). This anastomosis provides collateral circulation when the femoral artery is ligated below the profunda femoris origin. The obturator artery contributes to the trochanteric anastomosis (around the hip joint capsule) via its posterior branch — it is not part of the cruciate anastomosis.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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