Palmar carpal branches

Last revised by Craig Hacking on 23 Nov 2020

The two palmar carpal branches originate from the radial and ulnar arteries, respectively. They anastomose centrally, supporting the arterial supply of the anterior aspect of the wrist via their contribution to forming the palmar carpal arch 1.

The palmar carpal branch of the ulnar artery traverses laterally across the anterior aspect of the distal ulna, deep to the flexor digitorum profundus.

The palmar carpal branch of the radial artery originates just distal to the inferior edge of the pronator quadratus. It travels inferomedially along the anterior aspect of the distal radius, deep to the flexor muscles.

The two palmar carpal branches anastomose centrally, deep to the long flexor tendons. Their branches contribute to the formation of the palmar carpal arch.

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