What does the External Iliac artery become at the Inguinal ligament?

The External Iliac artery transitions into the Common Femoral artery at the level of the Inguinal ligament. This anatomical change marks the end of the external iliac artery and the beginning of the femoral artery's pathway as it continues down the leg.

Understanding this transition is crucial in vascular anatomy, particularly when it comes to the vascular supply of the lower limb. The Common Femoral artery is responsible for supplying blood to the thigh and, via its branches, to structures in the leg and foot. This is significant for various vascular procedures and assessments, especially in contexts dealing with limb ischemia or trauma.

The other choices refer to arteries located further down the lower limb. For example, the Superficial Femoral artery is a continuation of the Common Femoral artery but arises after this initial transition. Similarly, the Popliteal artery branches off from the Femoral artery behind the knee, and the Deep Femoral artery (or Profunda Femoris), which arises from the Common Femoral artery, supplies deeper structures of the thigh. Understanding the correct pathway is essential for anyone studying vascular technology or related medical fields.