Arcuate artery of the foot

Arcuate Artery of the Foot

The arcuate artery of the foot is a significant arterial vessel in the human foot, playing a crucial role in the vascular supply to the lateral aspect of the foot, including the toes. Originating from the dorsalis pedis artery, just before it enters the first intermetatarsal space, the arcuate artery runs laterally across the bases of the metatarsal bones, giving off branches that contribute to the blood supply of the toes.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The arcuate artery is a continuation of the dorsalis pedis artery, which itself is a continuation of the anterior tibial artery. After its origin, the arcuate artery courses laterally across the dorsal surface of the foot, lying proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints. It is located deep to the tendons of the extensor digitorum brevis muscle and is accompanied along its course by the deep peroneal nerve.

As it traverses the foot, the arcuate artery gives rise to several dorsal metatarsal arteries, typically three in number, which further divide into dorsal digital arteries. These digital arteries supply blood to the adjacent sides of the toes, ensuring the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for the health and function of these structures.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the arcuate artery is to supply blood to the lateral side of the foot and the toes. It plays a vital role in the arterial network of the foot, contributing to the formation of the plantar and dorsal arterial arches. These arches are essential for distributing blood throughout the foot, accommodating the high demands placed on this area during weight-bearing and locomotion activities.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The arcuate artery's significance in clinical medicine primarily relates to its role in the vascular supply of the foot. Conditions such as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can lead to compromised blood flow through the arcuate artery, resulting in symptoms like pain, cramping, or ulcers in the affected areas. In severe cases, inadequate blood supply can lead to tissue necrosis and gangrene, necessitating medical or surgical intervention.

Diagnostic procedures, including angiography, can visualize the arcuate artery and its branches, helping to identify blockages or other abnormalities. In some surgical procedures, such as revascularization surgeries, the arcuate artery may be directly involved or affected, requiring careful consideration to preserve foot vascularization.