Dorsal metacarpal artery

Dorsal Metacarpal Artery

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Dorsal metacarpal arteries (Image courtesy of Gray's Anatomy)

The Dorsal Metacarpal Artery is a significant part of the human anatomy, specifically within the hand. It is a branch of the dorsal carpal arch that supplies blood to the metacarpus and the dorsal aspect of the hand.

Structure

The dorsal metacarpal artery typically arises from the radial artery and branches off into four smaller arteries. These arteries run along the metacarpal bones and supply blood to the dorsal interossei muscles, the lumbricals, and the skin on the dorsal aspect of the hand.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal metacarpal artery is to supply blood to the dorsal aspect of the hand, including the metacarpal bones, the interossei muscles, and the skin. It also plays a role in the thermoregulation of the hand.

Clinical significance

Understanding the anatomy of the dorsal metacarpal artery is crucial in hand surgery, particularly in procedures involving the dorsal aspect of the hand. Damage to this artery can lead to significant blood loss and potential complications.

See also

• Radial artery
• Dorsal carpal arch
• Metacarpus
• Hand surgery