Median artery

Median Artery

The median artery is a vessel in the forearm. Image from Gray's Anatomy.

The Median Artery is a blood vessel that is present during the fetal development in humans. It typically regresses and is replaced by the Radial Artery and Ulnar Artery in adults, but in some cases, it may persist as a significant source of blood supply to the forearm and hand.

Development

The median artery arises from the Axillary Artery, and it descends in the arm alongside the Median Nerve. During the fetal development, it is the main vessel supplying the forearm and hand. However, as the radial and ulnar arteries develop, the median artery usually regresses and becomes a small vessel, known as the Palmar Carpal Branch of the radial artery.

Clinical Significance

In some individuals, the median artery persists into adulthood and can be a significant source of blood supply to the forearm and hand. This is known as a persistent median artery. It can be identified on Ultrasound or MRI scans. A persistent median artery can sometimes cause symptoms such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, due to its location in the carpal tunnel.

See Also

• Superficial Palmar Arch
• Deep Palmar Arch