Small branch of the popliteal artery that supplies parts of the knee joint
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] This point of origin is distal to the superior genicular arteries , and between, equidistantly, the medial condyle of femur and the lateral condyle of femur .[2] As a normal variation, the MGA may emerge from the popliteal artery at a common point of origin shared with the 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] It may form a near 90° angle when the knee is flexed, but an angle of only between 15° and 30° when the knee is extended.[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] It also supplies the 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] It may also be damaged in 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)