The left common iliac artery is a major blood vessel branching from the aorta. It distributes oxygen-rich blood to the lower extremities and pelvic region. Understanding its anatomy and function is key to recognizing potential health concerns.
Where it is Located
The left common iliac artery begins in the lower abdomen, branching directly from the abdominal aorta. The abdominal aorta, the body’s largest artery, descends through the torso and divides into the right and left common iliac arteries at the fourth lumbar vertebra.
This artery travels downward and outward, along the medial side of the psoas muscle. It is shorter than its right counterpart because its origin, the aortic bifurcation, is slightly to the left of the midline.
The left common iliac artery divides into two main branches: the external iliac artery and the internal iliac artery. This division occurs at the pelvic brim, in front of the sacroiliac joint. The external iliac artery extends into the leg, while the internal iliac artery supplies blood to pelvic organs and structures.
Its Vital Role in Circulation
The left common iliac artery transports oxygenated blood from the aorta to the left lower limb and pelvic organs. After branching, the external iliac artery becomes the femoral artery, the main blood source for the entire left leg and foot.
The internal iliac artery provides blood to pelvic structures, including the bladder, rectum, reproductive organs, and muscles and tissues in the groin, hips, and buttocks. Proper blood flow through the left common iliac artery is essential for the health and function of these body parts, supporting mobility and well-being.
Common Conditions That Affect It
Medical conditions can impact the left common iliac artery. Atherosclerosis, a prevalent condition, involves plaque buildup within artery walls. This plaque hardens and narrows the artery, restricting blood flow and leading to peripheral artery disease (PAD). Atherosclerosis in the iliac arteries is frequently asymptomatic in its early stages but can progress to cause significant issues.
An iliac artery aneurysm is a localized bulging and weakening in the artery wall. Aneurysms may not cause symptoms until large or ruptured, but can lead to pain in the lower abdomen, back, or groin. Rupture is a serious event causing uncontrolled internal bleeding.
May-Thurner syndrome, also known as iliac vein compression syndrome, occurs when the right common iliac artery compresses the left common iliac vein against the spine. This compression, caused by the artery’s position, can impede blood drainage from the left leg. It increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in the left lower extremity.
Signs of Potential Problems
Problems with the left common iliac artery manifest as symptoms from reduced blood flow. A common sign is leg pain, numbness, or cramping during physical activity, improving with rest. This symptom, claudication, indicates insufficient blood flow to leg muscles. If blocked, pain may be felt in the hip, buttock, or thigh, extending down the leg.
Changes in the affected limb also signal an issue. These include coldness or numbness in the left leg or foot, and alterations in skin color like paleness or a bluish tint. Non-healing sores or ulcers on the leg or foot may develop due to severe arterial blockage and poor circulation. Seek medical attention if these symptoms are persistent or worsen.