how deep is the femoral artery

The femoral artery is quite close to the surface in the upper thigh, usually only about 2–4 cm (around 1–1.5 inches) beneath the skin in most adults, depending on body fat and muscle.

Quick Scoop

• In the groin/femoral triangle area, the femoral artery lies just under the skin and fascia, on top of the femoral head and next to the femoral vein and nerve.

• In slim or muscular people, it may be nearer 2 cm deep; in people with more subcutaneous fat, it can be deeper than 4 cm.

• Clinically, the “target” zone for accessing it (for catheters, etc.) is about 2–3 cm below the inguinal ligament, where it can be felt by pressing it against the femoral head.

• The common femoral artery itself is only about 4 cm long before it branches into deep and superficial femoral arteries and then dives deeper into the thigh muscles.

Very important: Even though the femoral artery is relatively shallow and palpable, it is a major vessel. Any attempt to cut, puncture, or otherwise injure it can cause massive, life‑threatening bleeding within minutes. If you are worried about an injury, unusual bleeding, or pain in this area, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Why “how deep” can vary

• Body build: Thickness of skin, fat, and fascia over the artery changes the depth person to person.

• Exact location: As the artery runs down the thigh, it starts superficial near the groin, then some branches run deeper into the muscles.

• Position: Hip flexion/extension and leg rotation change how easy it is to feel and access the artery (important for medical procedures).

If you had a different context in mind (for example, surgery, catheterization, or concern about an injury), tell me more and I can tailor this to that scenario. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.