Superficial Brachial Artery Terminating as Radial and Superficial Ulnar Arteries: A Case Report

Abstract

Striking variations in the origin and course of the principal arteries of the upper limb have received the attention of anatomists and surgeons for a long time.1'5 Departures from this anatomical norm, with respect to origin and course of arteries of the upper extremities occurred in 18.54% of cases.6 Anatomy textbooks only make reference to vascular aberrations in the main brachio-antebrachial arterial patterns.7 Accurate knowledge of the relationships and course of these major arterial conduits, particularly of their variational patterns, is of considerable practical importance in the conduct of reparative surgery in the arm, forearm and hand. We report a case of superficial brachial artery, its course and distribution-in-a: male Caucasian cadaver. Its presence is discussed in relation to the development of vascular structures in the upper limb and clinical implications.