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Superficial brachial artery with its high division
R K Singla1, R Sharma, R Sharma
1Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Amritsar, Punjab, India.
JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|April 18, 2013
Summary
Anatomical variations in the upper limb arterial system are common. This case details a superficial brachial artery, a rare variant important for surgical and interventional procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
- Embryology
Background:
- The upper extremity arterial system exhibits significant variability due to complex embryonic development.
- Awareness of these arterial variations is crucial given the upper limb's susceptibility to injury.
- The brachial artery is vital for procedures like cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, pedicle flaps, and arterial grafting.
Observation:
- This report documents a case of a superficial brachial artery.
- The brachial artery originated normally but coursed superficial to the median nerve.
- The variation was observed approximately five cm above the intercondylar line.
Findings:
- The superficial brachial artery bifurcated into the radial and ulnar arteries.
- This specific anatomical variation, the superficial brachial artery, has a reported prevalence ranging from 0.2% to 25%.
Implications:
- Accurate knowledge of major arterial conduits and their variations is essential for effective reparative surgery in the arm, forearm, and hand.
- Understanding such variations aids in preventing iatrogenic injuries during surgical and interventional procedures.
- This anatomical knowledge is critical for successful outcomes in reconstructive surgery and endovascular interventions involving the upper limb vasculature.
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