Princeps pollicis artery

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Princeps pollicis artery is a major artery in the human hand. It is responsible for supplying blood to the thumb and the index finger. The name "Princeps pollicis" is derived from Latin, with "Princeps" meaning "principal" and "pollicis" referring to the thumb.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Princeps pollicis artery" is derived from Latin. "Princeps" translates to "principal" or "chief" in English, indicating the artery's primary role in supplying blood to the thumb. "Pollicis" is the genitive singular form of the Latin word for thumb, "pollex".

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Princeps pollicis artery originates from the Radial artery, one of the major arteries supplying the hand. It travels along the thumb side of the index finger, branching into two smaller arteries that supply the thumb and the radial side of the index finger.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

The Princeps pollicis artery is of clinical significance due to its role in blood supply to the thumb and index finger. Damage to this artery can lead to ischemia and necrosis of these digits. It is also of importance in reconstructive surgery, particularly in the creation of thumb and index finger flaps.

Related terms[edit | edit source]

  • Radial artery: The artery from which the Princeps pollicis artery originates.
  • Ischemia: A condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of the body is reduced, potentially leading to tissue damage or death.
  • Necrosis: The death of cells or tissues due to disease, injury, or failure of the blood supply.

See also[edit | edit source]

Princeps pollicis artery Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
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 / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. 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