The femoral artery is a major blood vessel that is located in the lower limb. It is a continuation of the external iliac artery, which is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the lower body.
The femoral artery begins at the inguinal ligament, which is a band of connective tissue that runs from the anterior superior iliac spine to the pubic tubercle. From there, it travels down the front of the thigh, passing through the adductor hiatus, a small opening in the adductor muscles of the inner thigh. The artery then continues down the leg, passing through the popliteal fossa, a depression located behind the knee.
In the leg, the femoral artery gives off branches that supply blood to the muscles, bones, and tissues of the lower limb. It also supplies blood to the skin and fat tissue in the thigh and leg.
The femoral artery can be palpated (felt) through the skin at several points along its course. It can be felt at the inguinal ligament, where it is located just below the skin and can be easily pressed upon. It can also be felt at the midpoint of the thigh, just below the crease of the groin, where it is located slightly deeper beneath the skin.
The femoral artery is an important vessel for both diagnosis and treatment. It is commonly used as a site for taking pulse readings, as it is easily accessible and provides a good indication of the overall health of the circulatory system. In addition, the femoral artery is often used as a site for intravenous injections and blood draws.
In summary, the femoral artery is a major blood vessel located in the lower limb. It begins at the inguinal ligament and travels down the front of the thigh, passing through the adductor hiatus and the popliteal fossa. It supplies blood to the muscles, bones, and tissues of the lower limb, as well as the skin and fat tissue in the thigh and leg. It is commonly used as a site for taking pulse readings and for intravenous injections and blood draws.