Palmararterienarchen

Palmararterienarchen, often translated as palmar arterial arches, are two primary arterial arches located in the palm of the hand. These arches are formed by the confluence of branches from the radial and ulnar arteries, which are the main arteries supplying blood to the forearm and hand. The larger and more superficial arch is typically the superficial palmar arch, formed predominantly by the ulnar artery with contributions from the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery. The deeper and smaller arch is the deep palmar arch, formed mainly by the radial artery with contributions from the deep palmar branch of the ulnar artery.

These arches play a crucial role in the vascularization of the hand. They provide a continuous and robust blood supply to the metacarpal and digital regions. From the palmar arches, several branches arise, including the common palmar digital arteries and then the proper palmar digital arteries, which further subdivide to supply the fingers. The presence of these arches ensures that even if one of the main contributing arteries (radial or ulnar) is compressed or injured, the hand can still receive adequate blood flow through the collateral circulation provided by the arches. This anatomical arrangement is vital for hand function and resilience.