From the Research
The terminal branch of the posterior tibial artery is the medial plantar artery and lateral plantar artery. These two vessels form when the posterior tibial artery divides beneath the flexor retinaculum at the ankle, specifically at the tarsal tunnel. The medial plantar artery is typically smaller and supplies the medial aspect of the sole of the foot, while the lateral plantar artery is larger and curves laterally across the foot to form the plantar arch, which provides blood to most of the plantar aspect of the foot. This bifurcation is clinically significant as it provides the primary blood supply to the plantar surface of the foot. Understanding this arterial anatomy is essential for managing foot trauma, vascular disorders, and surgical approaches to the foot and ankle region. Damage to these terminal branches can compromise blood flow to the foot, potentially leading to tissue ischemia and complications in wound healing, as seen in patients with peripheral artery disease 1, 2, 3. The anatomy of the posterior tibial artery and its branches has been studied using classical anatomical dissection methods and reviewed in the literature 4. However, the most recent and highest quality study on this topic is not available in the provided evidence, but based on the available information, the terminal branches of the posterior tibial artery are the medial and lateral plantar arteries. Key points to consider include:
- The posterior tibial artery divides into the medial and lateral plantar arteries beneath the flexor retinaculum at the ankle.
- The medial plantar artery supplies the medial aspect of the sole of the foot.
- The lateral plantar artery forms the plantar arch, providing blood to most of the plantar aspect of the foot.
- Understanding this anatomy is crucial for managing foot trauma, vascular disorders, and surgical approaches to the foot and ankle region.