Anatomical study of dorsalis pedis artery

Abstract

Background: The dorsalis pedis artery is the dorsal artery of the foot. The knowledge of any variation in the course and distribution of the artery is clinically important and it is used to record peripheral pulsation. The aim of this study was to study origin, course, relation and branches of the artery. The length and diameter of surgically important branch were recorded.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at dissection hall of anatomy department at Chitwan medical college. Thirty lower limbs from fifteen cadavers were dissected for the study. Photographs were taken at different site of dissection and on finding anomalies. Newborn specimens and Conical enlargements if present were excluded.

Results: The diameter of the artery ranged from 3.0 to 4.6mm and its length ranged between 5.6cm to 8.4cm.The length of deep plantar artery was between 5.6cm to 8.4cm. Double lateral tarsal artery was found in (24)80% of the studied specimen and (6)20% were with single lateral tarsal artery. In 90% of the specimen medial tarsal artery originated as proximal and distal branch form medial aspect of dorsalis pedis. The arcuate artery emerged directly from dorsalis pedis artery in (100%) all studied specimen. The 2nd ,3rd and 4th metatarsal artery were placed on their corresponding intermetatarsal space.

Conclusions: Awareness of anatomical variation of vasculature of foot is important for the vascular surgeons, angiographers and reconstruction surgeons. Dorsalis pedis artery is excellent for the revascularization since it is the largest artery below the ankle joint.