cutaneous branch of ulnar artery

The cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery is a small arterial branch arising from the ulnar artery that supplies blood to the medial forearm, medial wrist, and the region surrounding the hypothenar eminence.

The cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery arises from the ulnar artery in the forearm and courses to the skin of the medial forearm, medial wrist, and hypothenar area of the palm. It runs in the subcutaneous tissues of the medial upper limb.

The cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery supplies oxygenated blood to the skin and subcutaneous tissues of the medial aspect of the forearm, medial wrist, and hypothenar eminence, supporting the viability of the overlying skin.

The cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery may be involved in forearm skin flap procedures in reconstructive surgery, where it can serve as a perforator vessel. Vascular compromise in the medial forearm following trauma or compartment syndrome may also affect this vessel.

The cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery is a small arterial perforator vessel running from the ulnar artery through the deep fascia to the skin of the medial forearm and wrist. It is typically identifiable only on detailed Doppler imaging or surgical exploration.