Formation Of Superficial Palmar Arch:A Cadaveric Study With Its Clinical Significances

The vasculature of the hand has been a topic of anatomical interest because of wide range of variations in the formation and distribution of palmar arches. In the present study we have emphasized on the varying pattern of the formation and branching pattern of the superficial palmar arch (SPA) in cadaveric human hands. The study was conducted in 42 formalin fixed human cadaveric hands and different presentations were noted. The classic formation of the SPA was noted in 76.6% of the specimens and mostly on the right hand. The other variants noted were SPA completed by the first dorsal metacarpal artery and SPA formed between median and ulnar artery. Incomplete SPA ending in the thenar muscles and an abrupt end between the index and middle finger were also noted in the present study. The existence of both common and rare anatomic variations in the formation of superficial palmar arch as well as the absence of collateral circulation between ulnar and radial arteries necessitates the proper knowledge of vasculature of the hand in order to avoid or minimize the risk of complications during vascular surgeries or reconstructive surgeries in the hand.