Metacarpal artery

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Metacarpal Artery

The metacarpal artery and its branches.

The metacarpal artery is a significant part of the human anatomy, specifically the hand anatomy. It is one of the branches of the deep palmar arch, which is itself a branch of the ulnar artery. The metacarpal artery primarily supplies blood to the metacarpal bones and the associated structures in the hand.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The metacarpal artery typically branches off from the deep palmar arch. It runs along the metacarpus, giving off several smaller branches that supply the metacarpal bones, the interosseous muscles, and the skin and fascia of the hand.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the metacarpal artery is to supply blood to the metacarpal bones and the surrounding structures. This includes the interosseous muscles, which are responsible for the movement of the fingers and thumb, and the skin and fascia of the hand.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Knowledge of the metacarpal artery is crucial in hand surgery, particularly in procedures involving the metacarpal bones or the deep structures of the hand. Damage to the metacarpal artery during surgery can lead to significant blood loss and potential complications.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



Wiki.png

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) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. 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