Running downward and located behind the rectus femoris is the descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery gives off the vastus lateralis, with a long branch that travels through the muscle downward as far as the knee. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery anastomoses with the superior lateral genicular artery, which is accompanied by the vastus lateralis muscle and the branch of the femoral nerve. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery is part of the cardiovascular system. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery provides to the vastus lateralis and intermedius. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery provides multiple perforators to the skin, which overlies the fascia lata and lateral parts of the knee. The branch is one of the main communications between the superficial and deep femoral systems of the legs. The descending branch lateral circumflex femoral artery may start from the profunda artery or from the femoral artery, and varies between individuals.