Fibular artery

The Fibular artery (also known as the peroneal artery), is a branch of the tibial artery, which supplies blood to the lateral compartment of the leg. The term "fibular" is derived from the Latin word "fibula", meaning "clasp" or "buckle", as the fibula and tibia together resemble an ancient clasp. The term "peroneal" is derived from the Greek word "perone", meaning "pin of a brooch", which also refers to the fibula.

Anatomy

The fibular artery arises from the posterior tibial artery, just below the lower border of the popliteus muscle. It descends along the medial side of the fibula, passing behind the tibiofibular syndesmosis to reach the lateral side of the calcaneus.

Branches

The fibular artery gives off several branches, including:

• Muscular branches: These supply the muscles of the lateral compartment of the leg.
• Perforating branch: This pierces the interosseous membrane to anastomose with the anterior lateral malleolar network.
• Calcaneal branches: These supply the heel and anastomose with the lateral plantar artery.

Clinical significance

The fibular artery is important in vascular surgery, particularly in procedures involving the lower extremities. It is often used as a bypass graft in patients with peripheral artery disease. In addition, the fibular artery can be used in reconstructive surgery, as it provides a reliable source of blood supply for free tissue transfer.

See also

• Tibial artery
• Popliteus muscle
• Fibula
• Peripheral artery disease

References

• 
  Popliteal branches from posterior view
• 
  Fibular artery