During the ilioinguinal approach for fixation of an anterior column acetabular fracture, the surgeon identifies an anastomotic vessel between the obturator artery and the inferior epigastric artery at the pubic ramus. Injury to this vessel (corona mortis) can cause significant hemorrhage. This structure is most commonly a:

• A Arterial connection present in >90% of individuals
• B Lymphatic channel with no clinical significance
• C Arteriovenous fistula requiring preoperative embolization
• D Venous connection present in approximately 30-50% of individuals ✓

Explanation

The corona mortis is an anastomotic connection between the obturator and inferior epigastric (or external iliac) vessels at the superior pubic ramus. It is most commonly a venous connection, present in roughly 30-50% of individuals. Arterial variants exist but are less common. Its clinical significance lies in the risk of hemorrhage during the ilioinguinal approach if inadvertently torn, as the vessel can retract into the obturator foramen.

Reference: Rockwood and Green's Fractures in Adults, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.