The cruciate anastomosis provides collateral circulation around the proximal femur, connecting the internal iliac arterial system with the femoral system. A patient with chronic external iliac artery occlusion depends on this network. Which vessel directly contributes to the cruciate anastomosis?

• A Superior gluteal artery
• B Obturator artery
• C Iliolumbar artery
• D First perforating artery ✓

Explanation

The cruciate anastomosis near the greater trochanter is formed by the transverse branches of the medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries, the inferior gluteal artery, and the ascending branch of the first perforating artery from the profunda femoris. The first perforating artery is the key inferior contributor linking to the internal iliac system. The superior gluteal artery exits above the piriformis and does not participate. The obturator and iliolumbar arteries supply the medial thigh and pelvic wall respectively.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.