Anatomical Variations in the Branching Pattern of Internal Iliac Artery in Human Cadavers

Abstract

Variations in the anatomical branching pattern of Internal Iliac Artery have been observed in humans. In clinical practice it carries immense significance, and has an impact on various procedures or operations that are performed in this area. We studied the existence of these variations in human cadavers available in the department of Anatomy King Edward Medical College, Lahore over a period of 4 years. A total of 50 cadavers were studied for the presence of variations / anomalies in the branching pattern of Internal Iliac Artery. Anatomical variations observed were, 1) absence of anterior & posterior main divisions in 12 bodies (24%) on left side and in 15 bodies (30%) on right side. 2) short main trunks (<1cm), observed in 9 bodies (18%), 3) high level of emergence of branches was noted in 6  bodies (12%) on left side & 8 bodies (16%) on right side 4) Bilaterally asymmetric branching pattern was seen in 2 bodies (4%). We conclude that the variations in the branching pattern of Internal Iliac Artery are not uncommon and this information should be used in undertaking clinical procedures and operations performed in this region to avoid complications and improve success rates.