Which is a branch of internal iliac artery –
**Core Concept**
The internal iliac artery, also known as the hypogastric artery, is a crucial branch of the common iliac artery that supplies blood to the pelvic region. It gives rise to various branches that supply the pelvic organs, gluteal region, and perineum.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is a branch of the internal iliac artery because it originates from the internal iliac artery and supplies blood to the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The internal iliac artery is a key supplier of blood to the pelvic region, and its branches are responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the various structures within the pelvis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This is incorrect because the common iliac artery is the parent artery of the internal iliac artery, not a branch of it.
* **Option B:** This is incorrect because the external iliac artery is a separate branch of the common iliac artery that supplies blood to the lower limb, not the pelvic region.
* **Option C:** This is incorrect because the superior mesenteric artery is a branch of the abdominal aorta that supplies blood to the midgut, not the pelvic region.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the internal iliac artery gives rise to both anterior and posterior divisions, which supply different areas of the pelvic region. The anterior division supplies the pelvic organs, while the posterior division supplies the gluteal region and perineum.
**Correct Answer:** C.