The articular branch of the descending genicular artery descends in the vastus medialis in front of the adductor mangus. The vastus medialis is a muscle located on the inner portion of the thigh near the patella, also known as the kneecap. The adductor mangus is a triangular muscle. This large muscle has two parts, the adductor and hamstring portions, and is located on the outside portion of the lower thigh.
A branch of this artery crosses on top of the femur and connects with the lateral superior genicular artery to form an arch. The lateral superior genicular artery supplies blood to the vastus lateralis, a muscle located on the outside portion of the thigh, approximately halfway between the hip and the knee.
The knee joint requires a constant supply of blood and nutrients due to its constant use. The combination of the lateral superior genicular artery and the articular branch descending genicular artery supply the necessary blood supply to the entire knee joint.