Interosseous artery

Interosseous Artery

Diagram of the anastomosis around the elbow-joint. (Interosseous artery labeled at center right.)

The Interosseous Artery is a significant artery in the human body, particularly in the forearm. It is responsible for supplying blood to the deep muscles of the forearm. The artery is divided into two main branches: the Anterior Interosseous Artery and the Posterior Interosseous Artery.

Structure

The Interosseous Artery originates from the Ulnar Artery, just below the elbow joint. It then divides into the Anterior and Posterior Interosseous Arteries.

Anterior Interosseous Artery

The Anterior Interosseous Artery runs down the front of the forearm, between the Flexor Pollicis Longus and the Flexor Digitorum Profundus. It supplies blood to these muscles, as well as the Pronator Quadratus and the interosseous membrane.

Posterior Interosseous Artery

The Posterior Interosseous Artery runs down the back of the forearm, between the Supinator and the Abductor Pollicis Longus. It supplies blood to these muscles, as well as the Extensor Digitorum and the interosseous membrane.

Function

The Interosseous Artery, through its Anterior and Posterior branches, supplies blood to the deep muscles of the forearm. This allows these muscles to function properly, enabling movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction of the fingers and thumb.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the Interosseous Artery's anatomy is crucial in surgical procedures involving the forearm, as damage to this artery can lead to significant blood loss and potential complications.

See also

• Ulnar Artery
• Flexor Pollicis Longus
• Flexor Digitorum Profundus
• Pronator Quadratus
• Supinator
• Abductor Pollicis Longus
• Extensor Digitorum