What are the main arteries that supply the true pelvis?

The main arteries are the internal iliac artery (with its anterior and posterior divisions), superior rectal artery, median sacral artery, and ovarian artery (in females). Most are branches of the internal iliac artery, except for the ovarian and median sacral arteries.

How does the internal iliac artery divide and what structures does it supply?

It divides into anterior and posterior divisions at the greater sciatic foramen. The anterior division supplies visceral structures like the bladder, rectum, and perineum, while the posterior division supplies parietal areas such as the sacrum and gluteal region.

What are the key veins that drain the true pelvis?

Key veins include the internal iliac vein (with tributaries matching its arterial branches), superior rectal vein, median sacral vein, and ovarian vein. The superior gluteal vein is often the largest tributary, except during pregnancy.

How do the ovarian veins drain differently on each side?

The right ovarian vein drains into the inferior vena cava (IVC), while the left ovarian vein drains into the left renal vein. This asymmetry is important for understanding venous return from the ovaries.

Which arteries of the true pelvis are not branches of the internal iliac artery?

The ovarian artery and median sacral artery are not branches of the internal iliac artery. The ovarian artery arises from the abdominal aorta, and the median sacral artery comes from the posterior aorta.

What is the role of the superior rectal artery and vein?

The superior rectal artery supplies the rectum and upper anal canal, branching from the inferior mesenteric artery. The superior rectal vein drains this area into the inferior mesenteric vein, which is part of the portal system.

Pelvic Vessels – Internal Iliac Artery & Vein