A complex variation in the
superficial palmar arch. Folia Morphol (Warsz) 2006;65:406-9.
In the lower third of the forearm SUA turned medially towards the ulnar aspect of forearm & crossed the flexor retinaculum superficially to continue as
superficial palmar arch in hand (Figure 3).
[sup][11] Peripheral artery bypass is a good alternative in the vasoocclusive disease of the
superficial palmar arch and tarsal arch, and also in relieving symptoms in lower limb larger arterial occlusive disease.
The ulnar artery on reaching the hand connects with the superficial palmar plexus which forms the
superficial palmar arch. The median artery loses its connections with the superficial capillary plexus and is reduced to a small vessel.
It then descended superficial to the muscles arising from medial epicondyle of the humerus and was covered by the deep fascia of the forearm, pierced the deep fascia proximal to the wrist, crossed the flexor retinaculum, and formed the
superficial palmar arch. Throughout its course, this artery gave no branch.
Some authors suggest that apart from its ethnic variations, its absence is more common in women, bilateral absence is more common, and that unilateral absence occurs more frequently on the left side (Schaeffer, 1909) Others have attempted to correlate the absence of the palmaris longus muscle with other anatomical anomalies, like an anomalous
superficial palmar arch, an absence of the plantaris, etc.
Superficial Palmar Arch: This arterial arch is variable.