Gluteus medius is supplied by which of the following aery ?
**Core Concept**
The gluteus medius muscle is a deep gluteal muscle that plays a crucial role in hip abduction and external rotation. It is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve, which originates from the L4-S1 nerve roots. The blood supply to the gluteus medius is essential for its function and overall muscle health.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The gluteus medius is primarily supplied by the superior gluteal artery, a branch of the internal iliac artery. This artery arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery and passes through the greater sciatic foramen to supply the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae muscles. The superior gluteal artery also contributes to the formation of the circumflex femoral artery, which supplies the femoral head and neck.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The inferior gluteal artery supplies the gluteus maximus muscle, not the gluteus medius.
**Option B:** The medial circumflex femoral artery primarily supplies the femoral head and neck, not the gluteus medius.
**Option C:** The lateral circumflex femoral artery also supplies the femoral head and neck, but not the gluteus medius.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The superior gluteal artery is a key landmark during surgical procedures involving the gluteal region, such as hip arthroplasty or gluteal muscle repair.
**Correct Answer: C. Superior gluteal artery.**