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Centuries-Old Artery Discovery Fuels Modern Medicine

From ancient anatomy to modern medicine, the medial femoral circumflex artery is now vital in surgical procedures, with its preservation crucial during hip replacements.

This is a collage. In this we can see a person's leg with tattoo.
This is a collage. In this we can see a person's leg with tattoo.

Centuries-Old Artery Discovery Fuels Modern Medicine

A historical anatomical discovery is now playing a crucial role in modern medicine. The 'arteriae circumae', or circumflex arteries, first identified centuries ago, are now being utilised in hip joint replacement surgeries and coronary artery bypass grafts.

These arteries, notably the medial femoral circumflex artery, have a significant role in blood supply to the hip joint and thigh muscles. They branch from the femoral artery, which originates from the external iliac artery, itself a branch of the aorta. The medial femoral circumflex artery winds around the femur and sits behind the femoral neck, making it vulnerable during hip replacement procedures.

Anatomists like William Harvey, in the 17th century, first described the coronary circulation, which included these circumflex arteries. However, their specific identification and use in bypass grafts have been refined over decades.

The medial femoral circumflex artery, discovered centuries ago, is now a vital component in modern surgical procedures. Its use in coronary artery bypass grafts and potential risk during hip replacements highlight the importance of understanding and preserving these vessels.

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