(2 of 3)
Identify the branches of the anterior division of the internal iliac artery. The obturator artery is accompanied by the obturator nerve. These structures cross the lateral wall of the pelvis and enter the obturator canal. The umbilical artery gives several branches, called the superior vesical arteries, to the apex and superior wall of the bladder. Distally, the lumen of the umbilical artery is obliterated. This portion of the umbilical artery represents the medial umbilical ligament in the adult. The uterine artery crosses in the parametrium, superior to the ureter (Figure 43.8). As the uterine artery reaches the isthmus of the uterus, it gives the vaginal artery, which supplies the superior part of the vagina.
Links and References: