Where Does the Abdominal Aorta Bifurcate?

The abdominal aorta bifurcates at the L4 level. The small median or middle sacral artery arises from the posterior surface of the abdominal aorta close to the bifurcation and descends vertically along the pelvic surface of the sacrum.

Where is the bifurcation of the abdominal aorta located?

The aortic bifurcation is the point at which the abdominal aorta bifurcates into the left and right common iliac arteries. The aortic bifurcation is usually seen at the level of L4, just above the junction of the left and right common iliac veins.

What position does the abdominal aorta occupy?

The abdominal aorta begins at the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm, anterior to and at the level of the lower portion of the 12th thoracic vertebra, descending slightly lateral to the midline and in close relation to the vertebral bodies, ending at the 4th lumbar vertebra.