Corona Mortise- Anatomical Variants and Implications in Pelvic-acetabular Surgery: An Evidence Based Review

Background: Corona Mortise is the name given to the anastomotic vessels forming a communication between external and internal iliac vascular systems. These channels have a high tendency to cause uncontrollable bleeding if injured and are particularly at risk during the anterior approach to acetabulum. While previous studies have described them as arterial or venous connections or both, there is still a lack of consensus regarding exact nature and location of these vessels, which make their timely identification all the more challenging.

Objective: The present review is aimed at performing a comprehensive review of existing literature and discuss the anatomy and implications of correct identification of Corona Mortise in pelvic-acetabular surgery.

Conclusion: Corona Mortise is more commonly venous than arterial. This not only makes haemorrhage control more challenging but also precludes the use of pre-operative angiography. However, most authors do not recommend a change in surgical approach for fear of damaging these vessels.