Anatomic basis of a pedicled extensor digitorum brevis muscle flap

The vascularization of the extensor digitorum brevis is ensured on its deep aspect by branches of the anterior tibial artery, but also by a lateral arterial arch anastomosing with these branches. The lateral vascular arch of the extensor digitorum brevis was constantly found in 37 anatomic specimens: 17 formolized and 20 fresh. This arch derives from the perforating peroneal branch, the terminal anterior branch of the peroneal artery. Its variable caliber, assessed by arteriography of the foot, seemed adequate for the peroneal artery to serve as a pedicle for the extensor digitorum brevis without interruption of the anterior-tibial axis.