Arteria recurrens ulnaris, also known as the recurrent ulnar artery, is a term used in anatomy to describe a small artery found in the forearm. It is a branch of the ulnar artery, one of the major blood vessels supplying the forearm and hand.
The ulnar artery is responsible for carrying oxygenated blood from the brachial artery (located in the upper arm) to the hand and forearm muscles. The arteria recurrens ulnaris emerges from the ulnar artery near the elbow joint, and its path can vary slightly from person to person.
The term "recurrens" refers to the characteristic of this artery to form an anastomosis, or connection, with other arteries in the forearm. Specifically, it forms connections with the radial artery, another major blood vessel in the forearm. This anastomosis ensures a steady blood supply to the hand and fingers even if one of these arteries becomes blocked or compromised.
The arteria recurrens ulnaris participates in the overall blood circulation and provides an alternative route for blood flow in the event of an injury or occlusion of the ulnar or radial artery. It assists in maintaining adequate blood supply to the structures of the forearm, including muscles, tendons, and nerves.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the arteria recurrens ulnaris is important in surgical procedures, as it could be affected during surgery on the forearm and hand. Moreover, knowledge of this artery's presence and its anastomotic connections contributes to a better understanding of the overall blood supply and circulation in the upper limb.
