Among the body’s intricate network of blood vessels, some arteries are less commonly known but hold particular significance. One such vessel is the Sampson artery, named after American gynecologist John A. Sampson, who made significant contributions to the study of pelvic anatomy and coined the term “endometriosis”. The Sampson artery plays a role in its specific context within the female pelvic region.
Understanding the Sampson Artery
The Sampson artery, also identified as the artery of the round ligament of the uterus, is a relatively small but consistently present blood vessel. It typically originates as a branch of the inferior epigastric artery, which itself stems from the external iliac artery. This artery maintains a close anatomical association with the round ligament of the uterus, running beneath it. It forms an anastomosis between the uterine artery and the ovarian artery.
Its Anatomical Route
After branching from the inferior epigastric artery, the Sampson artery courses inferiorly to the round ligament of the uterus. The round ligament extends from the uterus, passes through the inguinal canal, and eventually reaches the labia majora. The Sampson artery accompanies the round ligament, traversing the inguinal canal alongside it. The artery’s termination points involve anastomoses with both the uterine and ovarian arteries, forming a vascular arcade within the pelvis.
Physiological Contribution
The primary physiological role of the Sampson artery involves supplying blood to the round ligament of the uterus, which helps support the uterus within the pelvic cavity. Beyond the round ligament, it also contributes to the vascular network of surrounding tissues. While it provides some collateral blood flow to the ovaries, its contribution to ovarian blood supply is considered minimal compared to the main ovarian arteries. This arterial connection between the uterine and ovarian arteries contributes to the overall vascularization of the female reproductive system.
Clinical Significance
The Sampson artery, despite its small size, is clinically significant, especially in surgical procedures involving the inguinal canal and pelvic region. During surgeries such as inguinal hernia repair, particularly in female patients, the Sampson artery can be encountered. Injury to this vessel, though rare, can lead to significant bleeding, known as hemoperitoneum, sometimes necessitating a return to the operating room.
Gynecological surgeries, including hysterectomies, also require surgeons to be aware of the Sampson artery, as it may need careful ligation to prevent hemorrhage. Variations in its presence or course, while not extensively documented, can influence surgical planning and execution. The Sampson artery has also been implicated in conditions such as endometriosis of the round ligament, where it might contribute to symptoms like pain or bleeding, supporting John A. Sampson’s early research on endometriosis.