Palmar metacarpal arteries

Palmar Metacarpal Arteries

The palmar metacarpal arteries are shown in this diagram of the hand's arterial system.

The Palmar Metacarpal Arteries are a group of arteries found in the human hand. They are branches of the deep palmar arch, which is itself a branch of the ulnar artery. These arteries play a crucial role in the vascular system of the hand, supplying blood to the metacarpal bones and the surrounding tissues.

Anatomy

The palmar metacarpal arteries typically arise as three common branches from the deep palmar arch. They run distally in the spaces between the metacarpal bones, where they anastomose with the dorsal metacarpal arteries from the dorsal carpal arch. Each artery then divides into two proper palmar digital arteries that supply the adjacent sides of two digits.

Function

The primary function of the palmar metacarpal arteries is to supply blood to the metacarpal bones and the interosseous muscles. They also contribute to the blood supply of the skin and the subcutaneous tissues of the palm.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy of the palmar metacarpal arteries is important in several clinical scenarios, including hand surgery and the treatment of hand injuries. For example, damage to these arteries can lead to ischemia or inadequate blood supply to the hand, which can result in tissue death and loss of function.

See Also

• Hand
• Artery
• Metacarpus
• Deep palmar arch
• Ulnar artery