Most important arterial blood supply of femoral head is: (PGI June 2008)
**Core Concept**
The most important arterial blood supply of the femoral head is crucial for maintaining its viability and preventing avascular necrosis, a common complication in hip fractures and osteonecrosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The femoral head receives its blood supply primarily through the medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries, which are branches of the deep femoral artery. These arteries form an anastomotic ring around the femoral neck, providing a rich network of blood vessels that supply the femoral head. The medial circumflex femoral artery is considered the most important contributor to the blood supply of the femoral head, as it provides the majority of the blood flow to the head through its posterior and ascending branches.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the correct artery or arteries responsible for the blood supply of the femoral head.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a recognized artery supplying the femoral head.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because while it mentions the deep femoral artery, it does not specify the correct branches that supply the femoral head.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that the blood supply to the femoral head can be disrupted in conditions such as femoral neck fractures, hip dislocations, and osteonecrosis, leading to avascular necrosis. Early recognition and treatment of these conditions are crucial to prevent long-term damage to the hip joint.
**Correct Answer: D. Medial circumflex femoral artery.**