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Dorsal Metatarsal Arteries

arteriae metatarsales dorsales

The four dorsal metatarsal arteries arise from the dorsal pedal arterial arch (arcuate artery, from dorsalis pedis) and from the deep plantar arch perforators, running in the dorsal interosseous spaces to supply the dorsal skin of the adjacent toes via dorsal digital arteries. The first dorsal metatarsal artery arises from the dorsalis pedis directly before it perforates the first interosseous space to become the deep plantar artery.

Region: Foot & Ankle

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The dorsal metatarsal arteries are the pedicles for dorsal metatarsal artery flaps used in toe and foot reconstruction. The first dorsal metatarsal artery provides the pedicle for the first web space free flap and for the pedicled kite flap (first dorsal metacarpal artery flap) to the thumb. Pre-operative Doppler mapping confirms dorsal metatarsal artery patency before flap planning in patients with peripheral vascular disease or previous foot surgery. The dorsal arterial supply is secondary to the dominant plantar supply in most feet.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

First Dorsal Metatarsal Artery Flap for First Web Space Reconstruction

The first dorsal metatarsal artery arising from the dorsalis pedis supplies an island of first web space skin that can be raised as a pedicled or free flap for thumb web space and dorsal finger reconstruction; Doppler confirmation of arterial patency in the first dorsal interosseous space before flap design is essential in diabetic or ischaemic patients.