Radiaalarterin

Radiaalarterin, also known as the radial artery, is a major blood vessel located in the forearm and hand. It arises from the bifurcation of the brachial artery at the level of the elbow, typically near the neck of the radius bone. The radial artery runs along the lateral aspect of the forearm, extending from the elbow to the wrist, where it contributes to the formation of the deep palmar arch in the hand.

Functionally, the radial artery is crucial for supplying oxygenated blood to the lateral muscles of the forearm and the hand. It is also commonly used for arterial blood sampling, intra-arterial access, and as an access site for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary interventions due to its relatively superficial position and ease of palpation.

Anatomically, the radial artery gives off several branches, including the radial recurrent artery, which supplies part of the elbow region, and perforating branches that contribute to the vascular network of the forearm. It travels deep to the brachioradialis muscle and is situated close to the surface of the skin at the wrist, making it accessible for clinical procedures.

Because of its importance in both systemic circulation and medical procedures, the radial artery is a key vessel in vascular anatomy. Its prominence at the wrist makes it a common pulse site for measuring heart rate, especially in emergency or clinical settings. The radial artery's accessibility and collateral circulation with the ulnar artery also make it favorable for surgical and diagnostic interventions.