Artery: Middle rectal artery
The blood vessels of the rectum and anus, showing the distribution and anastomosis on the posterior surface near the termination of the gut. (Labeled as hemorrhoidal artery.)
The arteries of the pelvis.
Latin	arteria rectalis media
Gray's	subject #155 615
Supplies	Rectum, seminal vesicle, vagina
Source	Internal iliac artery
Vein	Middle rectal veins

The middle rectal artery is an artery in the pelvis that supplies blood to the rectum.

[edit] Structure

Internal iliac artery, showing branches, including middle rectal artery

The middle rectal artery usually arises with the inferior vesical artery, a branch of the internal iliac artery. It is distributed to the rectum, anastomosing with the inferior vesical artery, superior rectal artery, and inferior rectal artery.

In males, the middle rectal artery may give off branches to the prostate and the seminal vesicles, while in females it gives off branches to the vagina.

[edit] Additional images

Sigmoid colon and rectum, showing distribution of branches of inferior mesenteric artery and their anastomoses.

[edit] See also

• Superior rectal artery
• Inferior rectal artery

[edit] External links

• SUNY Labs 43:13-0302 - "The Female Pelvis: Branches of Internal Iliac Artery"
• pelvis at The Anatomy Lesson by Wesley Norman (Georgetown University) (pelvicarteries)

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