What is the origin and course of the dorsalis pedis artery?

The dorsalis pedis artery originates as the continuation of the anterior tibial artery in front of the ankle joint. It runs along the medial top of the foot and ends by passing between the heads of the first dorsal interosseous muscle to join the lateral plantar artery in the sole.

What are the key anatomical relations of the dorsalis pedis artery?

It is crossed superficially by the extensor hallucis brevis muscle. Deeply, it lies medial to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus (EHL), lateral to the first tendon of extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and above the ankle joint and tarsal bones.

What branches arise from the dorsalis pedis artery?

Its main branches include lateral and medial tarsal arteries, which help form ankle networks; the arcuate artery, giving off dorsal metatarsal arteries for the lateral four toes; and the first dorsal metatarsal artery, supplying the big and second toes.

How is the dorsalis pedis artery pulse palpated and why is it important?

The pulse is felt between the tendons of extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus. It is crucial for assessing peripheral arterial diseases like Buerger's disease, but note it may be congenitally absent in about 14% of people, requiring confirmation via the posterior tibial artery.

What clinical significance does the dorsalis pedis artery have?

It is a key site for pulse palpation in diagnosing conditions such as Buerger's disease. However, its absence in some individuals highlights the need for alternative assessments, like checking the posterior tibial artery, to avoid misdiagnosis.

Where does the dorsalis pedis artery terminate?

It terminates by dipping between the two heads of the first dorsal interosseous muscle to enter the sole of the foot, where it anastomoses (connects) with the lateral plantar artery.

Dorsalis Pedis Artery – Course & Pulse