Superior ulnar collateral artery

Superior Ulnar Collateral Artery

The superior ulnar collateral artery (SUCA) is a branch of the brachial artery that plays a crucial role in the blood supply to the elbow joint. It is also known as the anterior ulnar recurrent artery or the arterial anastomosis of the elbow.

Anatomy

The SUCA arises from the brachial artery, which is the main blood vessel of the upper arm. It typically originates just below the level of the elbow joint, although there can be some anatomical variation. From its origin, the SUCA courses medially and posteriorly, running parallel to the ulnar nerve.

As it travels towards the elbow joint, the SUCA gives off several branches that contribute to the arterial network around the elbow. These branches include the anterior ulnar recurrent artery, which anastomoses with the posterior ulnar recurrent artery, forming an important collateral circulation around the elbow.

Function

The superior ulnar collateral artery provides a significant blood supply to the elbow joint. It forms an anastomotic network with other arteries, such as the posterior ulnar recurrent artery and the radial collateral artery, ensuring adequate blood flow to the joint.

During activities that involve repetitive or forceful movements of the elbow, such as throwing a baseball or performing weightlifting exercises, the demand for blood supply to the elbow joint increases. The SUCA plays a crucial role in meeting this increased demand by providing additional blood flow through its anastomotic connections.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or abnormalities affecting the superior ulnar collateral artery can have significant clinical implications. One such condition is a rupture or tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow, commonly seen in athletes who participate in throwing sports. The UCL is a crucial stabilizing structure of the elbow joint, and disruption of its blood supply can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.

Surgical procedures, such as UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery), often involve the manipulation and potential disruption of the SUCA. Surgeons must be cautious during these procedures to preserve the blood supply to the elbow joint and minimize the risk of complications.

References

1. Morrey BF, An KN. Functional anatomy of the ligaments of the elbow. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1985;201:84-90. doi: 10.1097/00003086-198512000-00012.

2. O'Driscoll SW, Lawton RL, Smith AM. The "moving valgus stress test" for medial collateral ligament tears of the elbow. Am J Sports Med. 2005;33(2):231-239. doi: 10.1177/0363546504266488.

3. Dugas JR, Ostrander RV, Cain EL, Kingsley D, Andrews JR. Anatomy of the anterior bundle of the ulnar collateral ligament. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2007;16(5):657-660. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2006.12.001.

See Also

• Brachial artery
• Ulnar nerve
• Elbow joint
• Ulnar collateral ligament
• Tommy John surgery