Palmar arteries

Palmar Arteries

The Palmar Arteries are a group of arteries found in the human hand. They are responsible for supplying blood to the palm of the hand and the fingers. The palmar arteries are divided into two main groups: the superficial palmar arch and the deep palmar arch.

Superficial Palmar Arch

The Superficial Palmar Arch is formed primarily by the ulnar artery, with a small contribution from the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery. It gives rise to three common palmar digital arteries, which further divide into proper palmar digital arteries to supply the fingers.

Deep Palmar Arch

The Deep Palmar Arch is formed mainly by the radial artery, with a contribution from the deep branch of the ulnar artery. It gives rise to the palmar metacarpal arteries, which join with the common palmar digital arteries from the superficial arch to supply the fingers.

Clinical Significance

The palmar arteries are important in a number of clinical scenarios. They can be affected by conditions such as Raynaud's disease, where blood flow to the fingers is reduced. In addition, their location makes them susceptible to injury, and they can be involved in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

See Also

• Ulnar artery
• Radial artery
• Hand anatomy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Raynaud's disease