Which arteries are the primary branches of the common iliac artery?

Which arteries are the primary branches of the common iliac artery?

• A. Internal and External Iliac Arteries
• B. Radial and Ulnar Arteries
• C. Inferior and Superior Mesenteric Arteries
• D. Vertebral Arteries and Basilar

Answer: (A)

Two main vessels arise directly from the common iliac artery: the internal iliac and the external iliac arteries. The internal iliac supplies the pelvic organs and gluteal region, while the external iliac continues down the lower limb and becomes the femoral artery after passing beneath the inguinal ligament. These are the primary branches because they originate from the common iliac itself. The other arteries listed come from different origins: the radial and ulnar arteries come from the brachial artery in the arm; the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries branch from the abdominal aorta to supply the intestines; and the vertebral and basilar arteries are part of the brain’s posterior circulation arising from the subclavian system.

Two main vessels arise directly from the common iliac artery: the internal iliac and the external iliac arteries. The internal iliac supplies the pelvic organs and gluteal region, while the external iliac continues down the lower limb and becomes the femoral artery after passing beneath the inguinal ligament. These are the primary branches because they originate from the common iliac itself.

The other arteries listed come from different origins: the radial and ulnar arteries come from the brachial artery in the arm; the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries branch from the abdominal aorta to supply the intestines; and the vertebral and basilar arteries are part of the brain’s posterior circulation arising from the subclavian system.