A study on uterine and vaginal arteries and their clinical significance

Abstract

Background: The anterior division of the internal iliac artery usually gives origin to the uterine artery and vaginal artery in common. Uterine artery travels in cardinal ligament to reach uterus by crossing the ureter anteriorly & parametrium of the inferior broad ligament of the uterus gives way for the uterine artery. Uterus is mainly supplying by uterine artery and it is anastomosing usually with ovarian artery. Vaginal artery is source of blood supply to vagina and lower part of urinary bladder. Objectives: The present study conducted to study the morphological features of uterine and vaginal arteries, and their variations, in origin and branching pattern. Materials and Methods: Dissection of 50 adult human pelvic halves was procured from embalmed cadavers of J.J.M. Medical College and S.S.I.M.S & R.C, Davangere for the study. Results: Out of 50 specimens uterine and vaginal arteries we had traced only in 17 specimens. Out of these 17 specimens, uterine artery took origin from anterior division directly in 15 specimens and double uterine artery was observed in 2 specimens. Vaginal artery took origin from anterior division directly in 15 specimens and with internal pudendal artery in 2 specimens. Conclusion: Uterine and vaginal arteries in majority of cases taken origin from anterior division of internal iliac artery and in few cases vaginal artery taken origin from internal pudendal artery. The knowledge of uterine and vaginal arteries is very important during obstetrics and pelvic surgeries and in treating of diseases related female pelvic organs.