Anterior tibial artery

Anterior Tibial Artery

Anterior tibial artery, shown in red, in the lower leg. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The Anterior Tibial Artery is one of the major arteries in the lower leg. It carries oxygenated blood to the anterior compartment of the leg and dorsal surface of the foot, from the popliteal artery.

Anatomy

The anterior tibial artery originates at the popliteal artery, travels down the tibia, and terminates at the dorsal pedis artery. It is accompanied along its course by a pair of venae comitantes (accompanying veins), which are connected by numerous perforating branches.

Branches

The branches of the anterior tibial artery include:

• Muscular branches
• Anterior medial malleolar arteries
• Anterior lateral malleolar arteries
• Dorsalis pedis artery

Clinical significance

The anterior tibial artery is palpable between the lateral malleolus and the extensor hallucis longus tendon. It is often examined in patients with peripheral vascular disease, as its patency can be compromised in conditions such as atherosclerosis and Buerger's disease.

See also

• Posterior tibial artery
• Peroneal artery