The anatomy of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and its descending branch in the computed tomography angiography: significance for reconstructive surgery.

Background: The lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) is a short branch of the deep femoral artery, considered an important vessel in numerous reconstructive and revascularization surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the topographic and morphometric features of the LCFA and its descending branch.

Materials and methods: Abdominal and pelvic computed tomography angiography data from 75 consecutive patients were analyzed. A total of 136 arteries were classified for the study and investigated in 17 categories, including morphometric (diameter, length) and topographical (origin pattern, relation to anatomically significant landmarks) parameters.

Results: The most prevalent artery of origin of the LCFA was found to be the deep femoral artery (76.5%). The median diameter of the LFCA at its origin was found to be 5.28 mm (LQ = 4.57; HQ = 6.28). The median cross-sectional area of the LCFA at its origin was set to be 17.63 mm² (LQ = 13.39; HQ = 23.26).

Conclusions: The study results confirm the morphometric and topographical variability of both the LCFA and its descending branch. Additionally, our study presented significant data regarding the spatial relationship between these vessels and nearby landmarks, such as the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis. The obtained data may be used as a source of knowledge for surgeons performing penile revascularizations and reconstructive procedures.