Anatomical variation of the profunda femoris artery

The profunda femoris artery is the largest branch of the femoral artery and plays a crucial role in the vascular supply of the thigh. Variations in its origin and its relationship to adjacent vascular structures are of considerable clinical importance, particularly during surgical and interventional procedures involving the femoral region. This study aims to describe a rare anatomical variation of the profunda femoris artery and its relationship to the femoral vessels. The study was conducted by anatomical dissection of a formalin-fixed lower limb specimen at the Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University - Plovdiv. Morphometric measurements were obtained using the inguinal ligament as a reference point. The origin of the profunda femoris artery and its major branches, as well as its relationship to the femoral vein, were documented. A high origin of the profunda femoris artery was identified, located 1 cm distal to the inguinal ligament. The lateral circumflex femoral artery arose 2 cm distal to the origin of the profunda femoris artery, whereas the medial circumflex femoral artery originated 3 cm distal to it. In addition, complete overlap of the femoral artery and femoral vein was observed. This case demonstrates a rare anatomical variation characterized by a high origin of the profunda femoris artery and an atypical relationship between the femoral artery and vein. Awareness of such vascular variations is essential for clinicians performing vascular access, surgical interventions, and radiological procedures in the femoral region, as it may help reduce the risk of procedural complications.