Dorsal metacarpal arteries

Dorsal Metacarpal Arteries are a group of arteries in the human body that supply blood to the dorsal aspect of the metacarpal region. They originate from the dorsal carpal arch and are part of the hand's vascular system.

Etymology

The term "Dorsal Metacarpal Arteries" is derived from the Latin words 'dorsum' meaning back, 'meta' meaning beyond, and 'carpus' meaning wrist. Thus, the term refers to the arteries that are located beyond the wrist, on the back side of the hand.

Anatomy

The Dorsal Metacarpal Arteries are typically four in number, each corresponding to one of the four spaces between the metacarpal bones. They arise from the dorsal carpal arch, which is formed by the anastomosis of the dorsal carpal branch of the radial artery and the dorsal carpal branch of the ulnar artery.

Each Dorsal Metacarpal Artery runs distally along the corresponding interosseous space, giving off perforating branches that supply the adjacent dorsal interossei muscles and the lumbricals. At the level of the proximal phalanges, each artery divides into two dorsal digital arteries that supply the adjacent sides of two digits.

Clinical Significance

The Dorsal Metacarpal Arteries, like other arteries of the hand, can be affected by conditions such as Raynaud's disease, Buerger's disease, and atherosclerosis. Their patency can be assessed using Doppler ultrasound.

Related Terms

• Dorsal carpal arch
• Dorsal carpal branch
• Dorsal digital arteries
• Metacarpal bones
• Perforating branches
• Radial artery
• Ulnar artery

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