Anatomical study of the superficial and deep circumflex iliac arteries: Morphology, variability, and surgical relevance

Purpose The vascular anatomy of the groin region plays an important role in reconstructive surgery and regional anesthesia, yet data on the precise morphology and topography of the superficial and deep circumflex iliac arteries remain limited. Methods 28 lower extremities of fourteen formalin-fixed male cadavers were dissected to examine the superficial and deep circumflex iliac arteries. Their origins, branching patterns, diameters, and spatial relationships to the inguinal ligament and femoral triangle were recorded. Morphometric distances were measured with a digital caliper, and correlations between parameters were analyzed statistically. Results The superficial circumflex iliac artery arose exclusively from the femoral artery in all cases and was consistently located within the femoral triangle. Its mean origin diameter was 1.83±0.46 mm. The deep circumflex iliac artery showed greater variability, originating from the external iliac artery in half of the cases and from the femoral artery in the other half. Its mean origin diameter was 2.25±0.40 mm, and it was located outside the femoral triangle in 71.4% of cases. Multiple significant correlations were identified between vessel diameters, bifurcation points, and their spatial relationships with the inguinal ligament. Conclusion The superficial circumflex iliac artery displays consistent anatomy, whereas the deep circumflex iliac artery demonstrates notable variability in origin and topography, though with stable vessel caliber. These findings provide detailed morphometric insights that may support safer flap design and improve surgical and anesthetic planning in the groin region.