Ulnar Artery

arteria ulnaris

The ulnar artery is typically the larger of the two forearm arteries and forms the superficial palmar arch that supplies most of the fingers through the common digital arteries. It passes through Guyon canal at the wrist where it is vulnerable to compression from repetitive impact (hypothenar hammer syndrome) or a ganglion within the canal. The common interosseous artery, its largest branch, supplies the deep forearm muscles through the anterior and posterior interosseous arteries.

Region: Forearm

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Brachial artery bifurcation at the neck of the radius

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Hypothenar hammer syndrome from repetitive palm impact (carpenters, mechanics) damages the ulnar artery at the hook of the hamate, producing distal finger ischaemia and digital artery occlusion that mimics Raynaud phenomenon. Diagnosis is by Allen test, duplex ultrasound, and angiography. Guyon canal syndrome can involve both the ulnar nerve and ulnar artery, and vascular compression from arterial aneurysm within the canal is a treatable cause of ulnar nerve entrapment.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome

Repetitive ulnar artery trauma at the hamate hook from palm impact occupational activities producing thrombosis and digital artery embolism causing finger ischaemia, managed with sympatholytic treatment and arterial reconstruction.