The radial recurrent artery is a short branch of the radial artery that ascends proximally toward the elbow joint. It is one of the two recurrent arteries of the forearm, the other being the ulnar recurrent artery, and contributes to the vascular network surrounding the elbow (the cubital anastomosis).
Origin and Course
- Origin: The artery typically arises from the radial artery just distal to the origin of the pronator teres muscle, although minor variations in the exact point of origin have been reported.
- Path: From its origin, the radial recurrent artery courses proximally, running between the brachioradialis muscle laterally and the supinator muscle medially. It passes posterior to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, ascending within the posterior compartment of the elbow region.
Relations and Anastomoses
- The artery lies superficial to the lateral collateral ligament and deep to the fascia covering the brachioradialis.
- It forms anastomoses with several arteries that supply the elbow, most notably:
- The deep (profunda) brachii (deep brachial) artery,
- The middle collateral artery (branch of the profunda brachii),
- The interosseous recurrent artery (branch of the posterior interosseous artery), and
- Occasionally, the lateral ulnar collateral artery.
These connections create a collateral circulation that can maintain blood flow to the distal humerus and elbow joint if the main arterial supply is compromised.
Branches and Areas Supplied
- Small muscular branches to the brachioradialis and supinator muscles.
- Capsular branches that supply the lateral aspect of the elbow joint capsule, including the lateral epicondyle region.
Clinical Significance
- Trauma: The radial recurrent artery may be injured in fractures of the lateral epicondyle or in penetrating injuries to the lateral elbow, leading to hemorrhage or hematoma formation.
- Surgical Considerations: Awareness of its location is important during operative procedures involving the lateral elbow, such as release of the lateral collateral ligament, fixation of distal humeral fractures, or arthroscopic interventions, to prevent inadvertent injury and ensure adequate hemostasis.
- Vascular Imaging: It can be visualized on angiographic studies performed to assess arterial supply to the forearm and elbow, particularly when evaluating for vascular anomalies or occlusive disease.
Variations
Anatomical studies have documented occasional variations, including:
- Absence of a distinct radial recurrent artery, with the radial artery giving off multiple small branches that collectively perform the same function.
- A larger-than-typical radial recurrent artery that may contribute more substantially to the elbow anastomosis.
References
- Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 42nd edition.
- Standring, S. (Ed.). (2020). Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice (42nd ed.). Elsevier.
- Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2023). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (9th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
(All information presented reflects current anatomical consensus as of the 2023–2024 literature.)