The arterial communication between the gastrocnemius muscle heads: a fresh cadaveric study and clinical implications

The purpose of this investigation was to describe the anatomy of the communicating (anastomotic) vessels between the gastrocnemius muscle heads and to record the extent of their supply potential. Ensuing clinical implications are discussed. Fourteen fresh cadaveric gastrocnemius muscles were examined. Detailed dissections of the communicating vessels were facilitated after injections of methylene blue or cadaveric blood solutions through the medial, lateral, or both sural arteries. The extent of the arterial cross-supply between the muscles' heads through these vessels was determined in-eight specimens after methylene blue perfusions through the lateral sural arteries, while one specimen was examined after injection of methylene blue and yellow ink through the lateral and medial sural arteries, respectively. Communicating vessels were detected in all 14 specimens. A mean number of 5.8 vascular bundles and single vessels was found. The bundles consisted of arterioles and, as all indications suggested, of concomitant venules as well. Regarding arterial cross-supply, it was clearly evident that each head could be vascularized solely from the contralateral one, mostly through these bundles. However, even if only a part of the bundles was preserved intact, vasculature was not affected.