What are the two main arterial arches that supply the hand?

The hand is supplied by two anastomosing arches formed by the terminal branches of the ulnar and radial arteries: the superficial palmar arch (mainly from the ulnar artery) and the deep palmar arch (mainly from the radial artery).

Which artery primarily forms the superficial palmar arch?

The superficial palmar arch is primarily formed by the ulnar artery, which continues beyond the flexor retinaculum. It is often completed laterally by a branch from the radial artery.

What are the key branches of the superficial palmar arch?

Key branches include three common palmar digital arteries that divide into proper digital arteries, one proper digital artery to the medial side of the little finger, and cutaneous branches to the palm.

How is the deep palmar arch formed?

The deep palmar arch is formed by the radial artery as it enters the palm from the dorsal aspect. It is completed medially by the deep branch of the ulnar artery.

What are the main branches of the deep palmar arch?

Main branches include palmar metacarpal arteries that join common digital arteries, perforating arteries connecting with dorsal metacarpal arteries, and recurrent branches contributing to the palmar carpal arch.

Why is a palmar arch laceration clinically significant?

Lacerations cause severe, uncontrollable bleeding due to extensive anastomoses. Effective control requires compression of the brachial artery against the humerus, as ligating radial or ulnar arteries alone is ineffective.

How do the superficial and deep palmar arches differ in location?

The superficial arch lies more distally, at the level of the distal border of the fully extended thumb, while the deep arch is about 1 cm proximal to it, deeper in the palm.

Hand Arteries – Superficial & Deep Palmar Arches

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