Posterior branch

Posterior Branch

The posterior branch is a term used in anatomy to refer to the rear division of a structure or organ. This term is often used in the context of the nervous system, circulatory system, and musculoskeletal system.

Anatomy

In the context of the nervous system, the posterior branch (also known as the dorsal branch) refers to the division of a spinal nerve that serves the muscles and skin of the back. Similarly, in the circulatory system, the posterior branch of a blood vessel typically supplies blood to the back of an organ or region of the body.

Nervous System

In the nervous system, the posterior branch of a spinal nerve, also known as the dorsal ramus, serves the muscles and skin of the back. This branch is smaller than the anterior branch, or ventral ramus, which serves the muscles and skin of the front of the body. The posterior branch carries both sensory and motor fibers.

Circulatory System

In the circulatory system, the posterior branch of a blood vessel typically supplies blood to the back of an organ or region of the body. For example, the posterior branch of the renal artery supplies blood to the back of the kidney, while the posterior branch of the coronary artery supplies blood to the back of the heart.

Musculoskeletal System

In the musculoskeletal system, the term "posterior branch" can refer to the rear division of a muscle or bone. For example, the posterior branch of the adductor magnus muscle in the thigh is responsible for hip extension.

See Also

• Anterior branch
• Dorsal ramus of spinal nerve
• Ventral ramus of spinal nerve