Anomalous median nerve associated with persistent median artery

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Human Anatomy
• Vascular Anatomy

Background:

• Anatomical variations of the upper limb are common and clinically significant.
• The median artery is typically a fetal remnant, usually obliterated in adults.
• Variations in the median nerve and palmar circulation can lead to diagnostic challenges and surgical complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document and describe a rare case of persistent median artery.
• To detail associated anomalies of the median nerve and palmar vasculature.
• To contribute to the understanding of upper limb anatomical variations.

Main Methods:

• Gross anatomical dissection of a single human right forearm.
• Detailed observation and documentation of vascular and neural structures.
• Comparison with established anatomical literature.

Main Results:

• Persistence of the median artery was observed, extending into the palm.
• The median nerve exhibited anomalies, including forming a ring around the median artery.
• The median nerve had an unusual origin for its palmar cutaneous branch and a dual thenar supply.
• The superficial palmar arch was incomplete.
• The persistent median artery supplied digital arteries and anastomosed with the radial artery.

Conclusions:

• This case demonstrates a complex interplay of anomalies involving the median artery, median nerve, and palmar arterial arches.
• Such variations underscore the importance of detailed anatomical knowledge for clinicians.
• The persistent median artery may have implications for vascular supply and surgical procedures in the forearm and hand.