Lateral Circumflex Femoral Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The lateral circumflex femoral artery is an artery of the thigh region. It is a branch of the deep femoral artery. It supplies the structures of the anterolateral 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 lateral circumflex femoral artery is a branch of the deep femoral artery. After its origin, the lateral circumflex femoral artery travels laterally, passing between the anterior and posterior divisions of the femoral nerve. It then courses deep to the sartorius and rectus femoris muscles – where it winds around the lateral aspect of the femur and divides into three branches: Ascending branch – travels superiorly along the intertrochanteric line of the femur to reach the hip joint. Transverse branch – travels laterally along the anterior surface of the vastus intermedius muscle. It then pierces the vastus lateralis and wraps around the anterior aspect of the femoral neck. Descending branch – travels inferiorly between the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscles towards the knee joint. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Overview of arterial supply to the thigh via the femoral artery Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Prosection of the femoral triangle, demonstrating the origin of the profunda femoris artery Prosection of the femoral triangle, demonstrating the origin of the profunda femoris artery 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 lateral femoral circumflex artery supplies structures within the thigh region via its three branches: Ascending branch – supplies the tensor fascia lata and overlying skin, femoral neck, head and hip joint. Transverse branch – contributes to the supply of the proximal femur and thigh via the cruciate anastomosis. Descending branch – supplies the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, skin of the anterolateral thigh and knee joint. Frequent questions What is the lateral circumflex femoral artery? The lateral circumflex femoral artery is an artery located in the thigh that branches from the deep femoral artery. It plays a crucial role in supplying blood to the structures of the anterolateral thigh. What structures are supplied by the lateral circumflex femoral artery? This artery supplies several key structures in the thigh region, including the tensor fascia lata, the femoral neck, and the hip joint, through its three branches. Additionally, it contributes to the blood supply of the proximal femur and the skin of the anterolateral thigh. How does the lateral circumflex femoral artery course through the thigh? After originating from the deep femoral artery, the lateral circumflex femoral artery travels laterally, passing between the anterior and posterior divisions of the femoral nerve. It then moves deep to the sartorius and rectus femoris muscles before dividing into its three branches. What are the branches of the lateral circumflex femoral artery? The lateral circumflex femoral artery divides into three branches: the ascending branch, which supplies the hip joint; the transverse branch, which wraps around the femoral neck; and the descending branch, which extends towards the knee joint. Each branch has specific areas it supplies within the thigh. What is the clinical significance of the lateral circumflex femoral artery? The lateral circumflex femoral artery is clinically significant due to its role in supplying blood to the thigh and hip region, which is vital for maintaining the health of these structures. Its branches also participate in the cruciate anastomosis, which is important for collateral circulation around the hip and knee joints. Rate This Article