Fourth Palmar Metacarpal Artery, Anterior View

Description

Centered in the palmar aspect of the hand, the fourth palmar metacarpal artery courses distally in the fourth intermetacarpal space, immediately adjacent to the shaft of the fifth metacarpal on its medial (ulnar) side. Proximally it arises from the deep palmar arch, then runs deep to the palmar aponeurosis and superficial to the interosseous plane, approaching the level of the metacarpal heads where it contributes to the digital arterial supply of the ring and little fingers. Flexor tendons to the ulnar digits lie superficial and slightly anterior to the vessel, while the lumbricals and interossei frame it from the radial and dorsal aspects. Small caliber branches and companion veins track alongside. A fine neurovascular neighborhood. This anterior (palmar) view matters because the ulnar-sided metacarpal vessels are frequently encountered in surgery for little-finger metacarpal fractures, deep palmar infections, and fasciectomy for Dupuytren disease, where dissection in the pretendinous bands can put the digital and metacarpal arteries at risk. It also supports teaching of palmar arch variability, since the depth and contribution of the deep palmar arch and its palmar metacarpal branches influence collateral flow after radial or ulnar artery injury. Use this artwork in gross anatomy and hand surgery teaching files to orient learners to the relationship between the palmar metacarpal arteries, flexor tendon sheath complexes, and intrinsic muscles in the ulnar palm. It also fits well in vascular anatomy chapters, operative atlases (palmar approaches), and patient-facing education on arterial repair or flap planning around the hypothenar region. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.