What is the arterial network on dorsum of foot?

Arterial Network on the Dorsum of the Foot

The arterial supply to the dorsum of the foot is derived from the anterior tibial artery (ATA) and the dorsalis pedis artery (DPA).

- The anterior tibial artery becomes the dorsalis pedis artery just distal to the ankle.

- The dorsal pedis artery continues anterolaterally across the dorsum of the foot, where it gives rise to several branches:

- Lateral tarsal arteries

- Blood supply to the lateral aspect of the foot.

- Medial tarsal arteries:

- Blood supply to the medial malleolus and the medial part of the foot.

- Arcuate artery

- Continues from the dorsalis pedis artery across the base of the metatarsals and forms a deep plantar arch that will anastomose with the plantar arch formed by the plantar arteries.

- First dorsal metatarsal artery

- Supplies blood to the first web space.

- Lateral dorsal digital arteries:

- Each lateral dorsal digital artery branches off just proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints to supply the lateral side of the corresponding toe.

- Common dorsal digital arteries:

- Arise from the deep plantar arch and travel dorsally to supply both sides of the corresponding toes.