First dorsal metatarsal artery

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

First Dorsal Metatarsal Artery

The first dorsal metatarsal artery is a significant artery located in the foot. It plays a crucial role in supplying blood to the dorsal aspect of the first metatarsal space, including the adjacent sides of the first and second toes. This artery is a branch of the dorsalis pedis artery, which itself is a continuation of the anterior tibial artery after it crosses the ankle joint.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The first dorsal metatarsal artery originates from the dorsalis pedis artery, just as the latter artery begins to diminish in size, typically at the level of the first intermetatarsal space. It courses distally, running along the dorsal surface of the first metatarsal bone. As it progresses, it gives off several branches:

  • Dorsal digital arteries: These branches supply the adjacent sides of the first and second toes. They are crucial for the vascularization of the toe tissues, including the skin and the nail beds.
  • Plantar branches: These small branches pierce the first intermetatarsal space to anastomose with the plantar metatarsal arteries, contributing to the blood supply of the plantar aspect of the foot.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the first dorsal metatarsal artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the dorsal part of the first metatarsal area and the adjacent toes. Its branches ensure that the tissues in these regions receive adequate blood flow, which is essential for maintaining tissue health and facilitating wound healing.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The first dorsal metatarsal artery is of particular interest in various clinical scenarios:

  • Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): In conditions like PAD, where blood flow is restricted due to narrowed arteries, the first dorsal metatarsal artery can be affected, leading to poor wound healing and, in severe cases, gangrene of the toes.
  • Foot Surgeries: During reconstructive surgeries of the foot, knowledge of the anatomy of the first dorsal metatarsal artery is crucial to avoid inadvertent damage and ensure proper blood supply to the surgical site.
  • Angiography and Angioplasty: This artery may be visualized during angiography procedures to assess the blood flow in the foot. In cases of blockage, angioplasty may be performed to restore blood flow.

See Also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD