Inferior Gluteal Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The inferior gluteal artery is a terminal branch of the internal iliac artery. It contributes to the blood supply to the gluteal region and posterior thigh. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The inferior gluteal artery arises within the pelvis as the terminal branch of the anterior trunk of the internal iliac artery. It passes inferiorly, between the S2 and S3 nerve roots, before leaving the pelvic cavity via the greater sciatic foramen. It enters the gluteal region inferiorly to the piriformis muscle. It then moves downwards, between the greater trochanter of the femur and ischial tuberosity of the pelvis. Within the proximal posterior thigh, the inferior gluteal artery divides into its terminal branches. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Superior and inferior gluteal arteries. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas The gluteus maximus has been dissected away to reveal the gluteus medius. The sciatic nerve emerges into the gluteal region inferiorly to the piriformis. The gluteus maximus has been dissected away to reveal the gluteus medius. The sciatic nerve emerges into the gluteal region inferiorly to the piriformis. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Supply The inferior gluteal artery contributes to the blood supply to the following structures: Muscles of the gluteal region – gluteus maximus, medius, minimus, piriformis, obturator internus, quadratus femoris. Head of the femur Sciatic nerve Proximal posterior thigh skin and musculature Frequent questions What is the inferior gluteal artery? The inferior gluteal artery is a terminal branch of the internal iliac artery that supplies blood to the gluteal region and the posterior thigh. It plays a crucial role in vascularising several muscles and structures in these areas. Where does the inferior gluteal artery originate? The inferior gluteal artery originates within the pelvis as the terminal branch of the anterior trunk of the internal iliac artery. It courses between the S2 and S3 nerve roots before exiting the pelvic cavity through the greater sciatic foramen. What muscles does the inferior gluteal artery supply? The inferior gluteal artery supplies several muscles, including the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, piriformis, obturator internus, and quadratus femoris. This vascular supply is essential for the function and movement of these muscles. How does the inferior gluteal artery travel within the body? After exiting the pelvic cavity, the inferior gluteal artery enters the gluteal region inferior to the piriformis muscle and descends between the greater trochanter of the femur and the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis. It then divides into its terminal branches in the proximal posterior thigh. What structures are supplied by the inferior gluteal artery in the posterior thigh? In addition to the gluteal muscles, the inferior gluteal artery supplies the head of the femur, the sciatic nerve, and the skin and musculature of the proximal posterior thigh. This blood supply is vital for the integrity and function of these structures. Rate This Article