Which of the following branch of Internal Iliac artery do not supply the Ureter?
## **Core Concept**
The ureter receives its blood supply from multiple branches along its course, primarily originating from the renal artery, ovarian/testicular arteries, common iliac arteries, and the internal iliac arteries. Specifically, the branches of the internal iliac artery that supply the ureter include the superior and inferior vesical arteries, the middle rectal artery, and the uterine artery in females.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The internal iliac artery gives off several branches that can supply the ureter, including the **superior vesical artery**, **inferior vesical artery**, **middle rectal artery**, and in females, the **uterine artery**. The **superior gluteal artery** is a branch of the internal iliac artery but it primarily supplies the gluteal region and does not directly contribute to the blood supply of the ureter.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** The superior vesical artery does supply the ureter, especially in its lower part as it enters the bladder.
- **Option B:** The inferior vesical artery also supplies the ureter, particularly in males, contributing to its blood supply as it approaches the bladder.
- **Option C:** The uterine artery in females gives off a ureteric branch that supplies the ureter.
- **Option D:** The **superior gluteal artery** does not supply the ureter; it primarily supplies the gluteal muscles.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the blood supply to the ureter is segmental and comes from multiple sources along its course. This is clinically relevant during surgeries like ureteric reimplantation or when ligating arteries in the pelvis to avoid compromising ureteric blood supply.
## **Correct Answer:** D. Superior gluteal artery.