Vessel
Dorsalis pedis artery
Artery crossing the upper surface of the foot
High-yield
Its usual course is just lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon. The deep plantar branch links the dorsal circulation to the plantar arch; both the main vessel and its branches can vary.
Overview
The dorsalis pedis artery is usually the continuation of the anterior tibial artery beyond the ankle. It runs toward the first space between the metatarsals, supplying the dorsal foot and connecting with the arterial network in the sole.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually the continuation of the anterior tibial artery at the ankle joint
- Course
- Travels over the dorsum toward the proximal first intermetatarsal space, usually lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon
- Branches
- Medial and lateral tarsal, first dorsal metatarsal and deep plantar branches; an arcuate artery is common but variable
- Supplies
- Dorsal foot tissues and, through connections with the plantar arch, parts of the deep foot
Clinical correlation
A missing dorsalis pedis pulse can reflect anatomical variation, difficulty feeling the vessel or arterial disease. It should be interpreted with the other foot pulse and clinical findings, with Doppler or other testing when needed, rather than dismissed as a normal variant.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the dorsalis pedis artery originate?
Usually the continuation of the anterior tibial artery at the ankle joint.
What does the dorsalis pedis artery supply?
The dorsalis pedis artery supplies the dorsal foot tissues and, through connections with the plantar arch, parts of the deep foot.
What are the branches of the dorsalis pedis artery?
Medial and lateral tarsal, first dorsal metatarsal and deep plantar branches; an arcuate artery is common but variable.
What is the course of the dorsalis pedis artery?
Travels over the dorsum toward the proximal first intermetatarsal space, usually lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon.