Select an option to reveal the explanation.
Explanation of Answer
Best answer and reason
Correct answer: Medial circumflex femoral artery
The medial circumflex femoral artery gives the retinacular vessels that run up the neck and supply most of the adult femoral head. A displaced intracapsular fracture tears them, so avascular necrosis risk is high.
Why the other options are wrong
Artery of the ligamentum teres
Contributes little blood to the adult femoral head; mainly important in children.
Lateral circumflex femoral artery
Supplies the anterior neck but is a minor contributor to the head compared with the medial circumflex.
Profunda femoris artery
Parent vessel of the circumflex arteries, not a direct supply to the head.
Superior gluteal artery
Supplies gluteal muscles; not a major femoral head supply.
Exam takeaway
- Medial circumflex femoral artery is the main adult femoral head supply.
Learn the Condition
Intracapsular neck of femur fracture (TEST)
Intracapsular neck of femur fractures disrupt the retinacular vessels.
Clinical application
Displaced intracapsular fractures in older patients are usually managed with arthroplasty.
Attachments
