Vessel
Dorsalis pedis artery
Artery of the dorsum of the foot
High-yield
Palpated lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon on the dorsum of the foot; a key peripheral pulse.
Overview
The continuation of the anterior tibial artery on the dorsum of the foot; its pulse is a routine check of distal limb perfusion.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Anterior tibial artery (at the ankle)
- Branches / tributaries
- Arcuate artery; Deep plantar artery; Dorsal metatarsal arteries
- Supplies
- Dorsum of the foot; contributes to the plantar arch
- Course
- Runs on the dorsum of the foot from the ankle to the proximal first intermetatarsal space
Frequently asked questions
Where does the dorsalis pedis artery originate?
The dorsalis pedis artery arises from the anterior tibial artery (at the ankle).
What does the dorsalis pedis artery supply?
The dorsalis pedis artery supplies the dorsum of the foot; contributes to the plantar arch.
What are the branches of the dorsalis pedis artery?
Branches of the dorsalis pedis artery include the arcuate artery; Deep plantar artery; Dorsal metatarsal arteries.
What is the course of the dorsalis pedis artery?
Runs on the dorsum of the foot from the ankle to the proximal first intermetatarsal space.