The superior gluteal artery is the largest branch of the internal iliac artery (Read more!), arising from its posterior division (Read more!) and supplying the structures within the pelvis and gluteal region. This artery is the terminal branch of the posterior division of the internal iliac artery.

After it arises, the superior gluteal artery travels posteriorly, usually between the lumbosacral trunk and the first sacral nerve root. Near the piriformis muscle, it makes a sharp turn and further travels laterally towards the greater sciatic foramen. It leaves the pelvic cavity via the suprapiriform foramen (a small opening above the piriformis muscle). It then immediately divides into the superficial branch and the deep branch, which both extend throughout the gluteal area.

The superior gluteal artery forms extensive anastomoses with the inferior gluteal artery, lateral sacral arteries, lateral circumflex femoral artery, medial circumflex femoral artery, and deep circumflex iliac artery. Overall, this artery provides arterial blood to the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, tensor fasciae latae, obturator internus, and piriformis muscles. It also gives a small nutrient branch to the ilium and branches to the hip joint.

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Superior gluteal artery