Radial Collateral Artery

arteria collateralis radialis

The radial collateral artery arises from the deep brachial artery (profunda brachii) in the upper arm and descends with the radial nerve in the radial groove (spiral groove) of the humerus, passing anterior to the lateral epicondyle to anastomose with the radial recurrent artery at the level of the lateral elbow. It provides the vascular supply to the radial nerve in the spiral groove and contributes to the lateral elbow arterial anastomosis.

Region: Upper Arm

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The radial collateral artery is the pedicle for the lateral arm flap (radial collateral artery perforator flap, LCAP flap), which harvests the skin of the lateral arm from the deltoid insertion to the lateral epicondyle based on septocutaneous perforators from the radial collateral artery. The flap provides thin, pliable skin for oral cavity, face, and pharyngeal reconstruction. Its course with the radial nerve in the spiral groove means that lateral arm flap harvest requires identification of the nerve to prevent injury.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Lateral Arm Free Flap Based on Radial Collateral Artery

The radial collateral artery perforators arising from the radial collateral artery septum in the lateral arm provide the pedicle for the lateral arm fasciocutaneous free flap, harvesting skin from the lateral humerus for oral cavity reconstruction with primary donor site closure and sensory reinnervation from the posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm.