Genicular arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the knee joint

Gray's Anatomy illustration of the genicular arteries

Gray's Anatomy illustration of the popliteal artery and its branches

The genicular arteries are a group of arteries that supply blood to the structures of the knee joint. These arteries are branches of the femoral artery and the popliteal artery, and they play a crucial role in the vascularization of the knee, ensuring adequate blood flow to support the joint's function and repair processes.

Anatomy

The genicular arteries are typically divided into five main branches:

• Superior medial genicular artery
• Superior lateral genicular artery
• Inferior medial genicular artery
• Inferior lateral genicular artery
• Middle genicular artery

Superior Genicular Arteries

The superior medial and superior lateral genicular arteries arise from the popliteal artery above the knee joint. They curve around the femur to supply the upper part of the knee joint capsule and the adjacent bone and soft tissues.

Inferior Genicular Arteries

The inferior medial and inferior lateral genicular arteries also originate from the popliteal artery, but they do so below the knee joint. These arteries supply the lower part of the knee joint capsule, the tibia, and the surrounding soft tissues.

Middle Genicular Artery

The middle genicular artery is a smaller branch that penetrates directly into the knee joint. It supplies the cruciate ligaments and the synovial membrane, playing a vital role in the nourishment of these internal structures.

Function

The primary function of the genicular arteries is to provide blood supply to the knee joint, which is essential for maintaining the health and function of the joint. The rich vascular network formed by these arteries ensures that the knee joint receives adequate oxygen and nutrients, which are necessary for tissue repair and maintenance.

Clinical Significance

The genicular arteries are of clinical importance in various medical procedures and conditions. For instance, they are often involved in knee arthroscopy and knee replacement surgery, where careful consideration of these arteries is necessary to prevent excessive bleeding and ensure proper healing.

In cases of knee osteoarthritis, the genicular arteries may be targeted in procedures such as genicular artery embolization, which aims to reduce pain by decreasing blood flow to the inflamed areas of the knee.

Related pages

• Popliteal artery
• Femoral artery
• Knee joint
• Cruciate ligaments

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