The femoral artery changes name as it leaves the thigh. Through which anatomical structure does it pass to become the popliteal artery?

• A Femoral ring
• B Adductor hiatus ✓
• C Saphenous opening
• D Hiatus in the interosseous membrane

Explanation

In the adductor (subsartorial) canal of Hunter the femoral artery runs alongside the femoral vein and saphenous nerve, and it exits the canal through the adductor hiatus, the opening in the aponeurotic attachment of adductor magnus to the femur. On entering the popliteal fossa it takes the name popliteal artery. The saphenous opening transmits the great saphenous vein, and no artery passes through the femoral ring, which is the medial boundary of the femoral canal.

Reference: Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy, 9th ed.

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