Vessel
Ulnar artery
Medial forearm artery
High-yield
Enters the hand superficial to the flexor retinaculum (Guyon's canal) with the ulnar nerve; chiefly forms the superficial palmar arch.
Overview
The larger terminal branch of the brachial artery descending the medial forearm, chiefly forming the superficial palmar arch of the hand.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Brachial artery (in the cubital fossa)
- Branches / tributaries
- Common interosseous artery (→ anterior and posterior interosseous); Palmar and dorsal carpal branches; Deep palmar branch
- Supplies
- Medial forearm, wrist, and hand (mainly the superficial palmar arch)
- Course
- Descends on the medial forearm, passes through Guyon's canal lateral to the pisiform, and continues as the superficial palmar arch
Frequently asked questions
Where does the ulnar artery originate?
The ulnar artery arises from the brachial artery (in the cubital fossa).
What does the ulnar artery supply?
The ulnar artery supplies the medial forearm, wrist, and hand (mainly the superficial palmar arch).
What are the branches of the ulnar artery?
Branches of the ulnar artery include the common interosseous artery (→ anterior and posterior interosseous); Palmar and dorsal carpal branches; Deep palmar branch.
What is the course of the ulnar artery?
Descends on the medial forearm, passes through Guyon's canal lateral to the pisiform, and continues as the superficial palmar arch.