Variability in the Structures Passing Through Obturator Foramen

Abstract

Background: The structures passing through the obturator foramen are usually arranged as follows from above downwards – Obturator nerve, obturator artery and obturator vein. But there can be a change in this pattern which is very important for the pelvic surgeons. Aim: To study the origin of the obturator artery and to note the arrangement of the structures passing through the obturator foramen. Materials and Method: 33 formalin-fixed adult pelvises of unknown age were studied to note the origin of obturator artery and the structures passing through the obturator foramen. Results: Many specimens had variation in the structures passing through the obturator foramen. Conclusion: Knowledge of structures in the pelvis is a must for every surgeon performing surgery in Bogros space and also for herniorrhaphy.

Keywords

• Obturator artery
• Obturator foramen
• Inferior epigastric artery