Variations in the Origin and Branching Pattern of the Profunda Femoris Artery and Their Clinical Implications

The profunda femoris artery (PFA) is a branch of the femoral artery, and it gives off medial and lateral circumflex arteries. The PFA and its branches are of utmost use in preventing avascular necrosis of the femoral head, during catheterisation, and in reconstructive surgeries. Due to the immense clinical implications associated with this artery, the study assumes great importance. The aim of the study is to highlight the varied anatomy of the PFA and its branches, along with correlating them with clinical implications. The literature was explored using the databases PubMed, MEDLINE, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar. Various terms related to the artery were used for the literature search. The literature revealed that the PFA and its branches vary greatly in various populations. The varied anatomy of this artery is of great use to vascular surgeons, to anatomists, and to oncologists.