The profunda femoris (deep femoral artery) is the main supply to the muscles of the thigh. It arises from the femoral artery in the femoral triangle, typically how far below the inguinal ligament?

• A 0–1 cm
• B 7–8 cm
• C 10–12 cm
• D 3.5–5 cm ✓

Explanation

The profunda femoris (deep femoral artery) arises from the posterolateral aspect of the femoral artery, typically 3.5–5 cm below the inguinal ligament. It immediately gives the medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries. The cruciate anastomosis at the level of the lesser trochanter connects the profunda with the inferior gluteal artery, providing collateral supply bypassing femoral artery occlusion. Knowledge of its origin is critical during femoral artery angiographic procedures and vascular surgery.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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