Posterior Interosseous Artery

arteria interossea posterior

The posterior interosseous artery arises from the common interosseous artery (a branch of the ulnar artery) and passes posteriorly through the interosseous membrane, above the distal margin of the supinator. It then descends between the superficial and deep extensor muscle layers of the posterior forearm to reach the dorsal wrist, where it anastomoses with the anterior interosseous artery through the interosseous membrane and contributes to the dorsal carpal arch.

Region: Forearm

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The posterior interosseous artery is the basis for the posterior interosseous artery (PIA) perforator flap, a reliable pedicled flap from the dorsal forearm used in hand and wrist reconstruction without sacrificing a major forearm artery. The flap is designed on the dorsal forearm between the lateral epicondyle and the ulnar head, centred on the posterior interosseous pedicle. The posterior interosseous nerve, which winds around the radial head and supplies the wrist and finger extensors, accompanies the artery in the posterior compartment.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Interosseous Artery Pedicle Injury

Damage to the posterior interosseous artery during radius fracture plating through a dorsal approach can compromise the distal anastomosis used in PIA flap harvest, and the posterolateral approach must carefully protect the artery and its associated posterior interosseous nerve.