Crura of penis is supplied by –
**Core Concept**
The crura of the penis are paired erectile structures that are part of the corpora cavernosa, responsible for penile erection. The crura are richly innervated and supplied by a network of blood vessels and nerves.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The crura of the penis receive their blood supply primarily from the internal iliac arteries, specifically the internal pudendal arteries, which branch off into the dorsal and deep arteries of the penis. These arteries supply the crura with oxygenated blood, facilitating erection. The crural nerves, which are branches of the pudendal nerves, also play a crucial role in regulating penile erection by transmitting signals from the brain to the crura.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The crura are not supplied by the external iliac arteries, which primarily supply the femoral arteries and do not have a direct role in penile blood supply.
* **Option B:** The crura are not supplied by the common iliac arteries, which are the main arteries supplying the abdominal and pelvic regions but do not have a direct role in penile blood supply.
* **Option C:** The crura are not supplied by the inferior mesenteric artery, which primarily supplies the large intestine and does not have a direct role in penile blood supply.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The crura of the penis are also known as the "corpora cavernosa" and play a crucial role in penile erection. Damage to the crura can lead to erectile dysfunction, highlighting the importance of preserving penile blood flow in patients with penile trauma or surgery.
**Correct Answer:** D.