Anatomical variants of the obturator artery and their clinical importance

Context: The obturator artery (OA) originates from the internal iliac artery (IIA), and it runs on the lateral pelvic wall to leave through the obturator canal. It can have a varied source of origin. A small pelvic space makes it susceptible to injury during repair of femoral and inguinal hernias and pelvic surgeries. Unexpected injury of an aberrant OA can be avoided only with a thorough knowledge of its anatomy. Aim: This study aims to estimate the prevalence and describe the course of aberrant obturator arteries. Settings and Design: A descriptive, cross-sectional, cadaveric study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, India. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four hemipelvices were dissected. Variations in the origin, course, and relations of the OA were observed and noted. Statistical Analysis Used: The results were tabulated, and the prevalence of each variation was calculated. Results: Variations were seen in 40.6% cases. OA originated from inferior epigastric artery (23.4%), external iliac artery (3.1%), posterior division of IIA and iliolumbar artery (1.5%), superior gluteal artery (6.2%), internal pudendal artery (1.5%), and inferior gluteal artery (3.1%) cases. Arterial corona mortis, a tortuous anastomotic channel connecting OA (originating from IIA) and inferior epigastric artery was seen along with venous connections in one specimen. Conclusions: Aberrant origins of OA pose a high risk for significant hemorrhage in trauma and various surgeries. Hence, a sound anatomical knowledge of its origin and course is vital while repairing fractures and hernias in this region.