AN ANATOMICAL ANALYSIS OF VARIATIONS IN THE BRACHIAL ARTERY BRANCHING PATTERN

Abstract

Background: Understanding both the typical and atypical arterial anatomy of the upper extremity holds vital clinical significance for vascular radiologists and surgeons. This knowledge ensures accurate diagnostic interpretation and facilitates the safe conduct of interventional and surgical procedures on the upper extremities. Awareness of anomalous branching patterns of the brachial artery is particularly crucial during percutaneous arterial catheterization to prevent complications from inadvertent vessel damage. Moreover, knowledge of variations is essential for plastic surgeons employing flaps in reconstructive surgeries. Methods: The present study was undertaken on 50 upper limbs of both sexes from embalmed adult human cadavers used for undergraduate dissection from the Department of Anatomy, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Naganur, Karimnagar. Results: Double profunda brachii artery (DPBA): One specimen (2%) had two profunda brachii arteries arising from the brachial artery instead of the usual single profunda brachii. Trifurcation of brachial artery (TRI): Six specimens (12%) displayed a trifurcation, where the brachial artery divided directly
into the radial, ulnar, and radial recurrent arteries, bypassing the usual further branching pattern. High origin of radial artery (HORA): One specimen (2%) had a higher origin of the radial artery than its typical location. High division of brachial artery (HDBA): One specimen (2%) showed an earlier division of the brachial artery into its radial and ulnar branches compared to the usual location.
Conclusion: Arterial variations in the arm hold significant clinical implications due to their frequent injury susceptibility and involvement in various surgical and invasive procedures. Precise understanding of these patterns is crucial for reparative surgeries around the shoulder, arm, and humerus fracture management. Documenting these variations is particularly vital for advanced microvascular reconstructive surgeries and radiologic diagnostics. Variations in the brachial artery branching pattern are pertinent in cardiac catheterization for procedures like angioplasty, pedicle flaps, or arterial grafting.