inferior epigastric artery

Introduction

With the overlying peritoneum, the inferior epigastric artery forms the lateral umbilical ligament.

Origin

external iliac artery

Branches

• cremasteric artery
• muscular & pubic arteries

Anastomoses

• superior epigastric artery
• obturator artery

Pathology

Different types of inguinal hernias are distinguishes on the basis of their passage relative to the inferior epigastric artery:

• direct inguinal hernias pass medial to the inferior epigastric artery
• indirect inguinal hernias pass lateral to the inferior epigastric artery

More general terms

• artery