Abstract

Background: The origin of obturator artery (OA) is important clinically because of its vascular role. The OA is one of the branches of the anterior division of the internal iliac artery. The source of OA has been documented from all possible neighboring arteries. So the course and ramification of the OA have received attention for gynecologists and surgeons. Materials and Methods: Study was conducted on 30 bisected pelvises specimens in Department of Anatomy, Gulbarga Institute of medical sciences, Gulbarga The pattern of origin of the obturator artery was identified. The obturator artery was traced from its origin to it extends till the obturator foramen. Results: In 80% (24 sides) the origin of obturator artery was from the internal iliac artery. In 76.7% (23 specimens), the obturator artery was originated from anterior division of internal iliac artery. Out of these, 46.7% (14 specimens), the obturator artery arouses as a single and direct branch of the anterior division of the internal iliac artery while variation in its origin as a common trunk was observed in 30% (9 specimens). In 20% (6 sides), it arouses from the external iliac artery i.e. from an inferior epigastric artery. Conclusion: Anomalous origin of OA may injure during surgical repair of hernia and fracture of superior ramus of pubis. The sound knowledge on anatomical variations of OA is very important to the general and vascular surgeons for successful outcome of the above mentioned surgical procedures and will help them to avoid unnecessary complication.

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