Posterior ulnar recurrent artery

The posterior ulnar recurrent artery is a small artery in the forearm that arises from the ulnar artery. It plays a crucial role in the vascular supply to the elbow joint and surrounding structures.

Anatomy

The posterior ulnar recurrent artery originates from the ulnar artery, which is one of the major arteries of the forearm. It typically arises just distal to the origin of the ulnar artery, near the elbow.

Course

The artery travels superiorly and posteriorly, passing deep to the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. It ascends towards the elbow joint, where it participates in the anastomosis around the elbow. This anastomosis is a network of arteries that provides collateral circulation to the elbow joint, ensuring adequate blood supply even if one of the main arteries is occluded.

Branches and Supply

The posterior ulnar recurrent artery supplies blood to the elbow joint and the surrounding muscles, particularly the flexor carpi ulnaris. It also contributes to the anastomosis with the inferior ulnar collateral artery and the superior ulnar collateral artery.

Clinical Significance

The posterior ulnar recurrent artery is important in surgical procedures involving the elbow, as well as in cases of trauma to the forearm. Understanding its course and connections is essential for surgeons to avoid inadvertent damage during operations.

Also see

• Ulnar artery
• Elbow joint
• Flexor carpi ulnaris
• Anastomosis (circulatory)