Small branch of the popliteal artery that supplies parts of the knee joint
Blood vessel
The middle genicular artery (azygos articular artery) is a small branch of the popliteal artery . It supplies parts of the knee joint.
Structure
The middle genicular artery (MGA) arises from the anterolateral surface of the popliteal artery .[ 1] [ 2] superior genicular arteries , and between, equidistantly, the medial condyle of femur and the lateral condyle of femur .[ 2] superior lateral genicular artery , or both vessels may arise at separate, distinct points.
The angle at which the middle genicular artery leaves the popliteal artery varies with flexion and extension of the knee.[ 1] [ 1]
The diameter of the MGA is between 2 and 4 millimetres , and its length between 3 and 5 centimetres . It has two venae comitantes along its length. It pierces the oblique popliteal ligament and the joint capsule of the knee .[ 1]
Function
The middle genicular artery supplies the anterior cruciate ligament and the posterior cruciate ligament .[ 2] synovial membrane at the bottom of the knee .[ 2]
Clinical significance
The middle genicular artery may be damaged during knee arthroscopy , particularly using a posterior approach through the popliteal fossa .[ 1] traumatic injuries to the knee, often caused by sports .[ 2]
References
This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 633 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)
