Arteries of the forearm: Posterior view (English)

The anastomotic network encompassing the elbow joint is formed by branches of the brachial, radial and ulnar arteries. Component vessels of the cubital anastomosis include: the radial, middle, superior ulnar and inferior ulnar collateral arteries of the arm which anastomose with the radial, interosseous, anterior ulnar and posterior ulnar recurrent arteries of the forearm. These arteries provide arterial supply to structures of the elbow joint. The posterior interosseous artery arises from the common interosseous artery and passes dorsally across the proximal border of the interosseous membrane to reach the posterior compartment of the forearm. It continues distally between the deep and superficial muscles of the posterior forearm and gives off several muscular and cutaneous branches. Near the wrist it anastomoses with the anterior interosseous artery and contributes to the formation of the dorsal carpal arch of the hand.