Dorsal metatarsal artery

Dorsal Metatarsal Artery

The dorsal metatarsal artery and its branches (shown in red).

The Dorsal Metatarsal Artery is a significant artery in the human anatomy, specifically in the foot. It is a branch of the dorsalis pedis artery, which is itself a continuation of the anterior tibial artery.

Anatomy

The dorsal metatarsal artery arises from the dorsalis pedis artery on the dorsal surface of the foot. It branches into four smaller arteries, each supplying one of the four spaces between the toes. These branches are known as the dorsal digital arteries.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal metatarsal artery is to supply blood to the dorsal aspect of the foot and the spaces between the toes. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of these areas.

Clinical Significance

The dorsal metatarsal artery is often used as a landmark in surgical procedures involving the foot. Its location and the areas it supplies make it a critical consideration in surgeries such as bunion removal and foot reconstruction.

See Also

• Dorsalis pedis artery
• Anterior tibial artery
• Dorsal digital arteries