Anatomy and Function of the Anterior Tibial Artery
The anterior tibial artery is located in the lower leg, running from the popliteal fossa just behind the knee down along the tibia and fibula, the major bones of the lower leg. It is a branch of the popliteal artery that delivers oxygenated blood to the anterior (front-facing) part of the leg.
Anatomy
The anterior tibial artery passes through a tough connective tissue called the interosseus membrane after it splits off from the popliteal artery and moves down the leg from the knee. After passing through this membrane, it runs down between two muscles of the front of the lower leg, the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus, before crossing the front of the ankle joint.
Anatomical Variations
More than 90% of people have no anatomical variation in their anterior tibial artery, but it’s absent or underdeveloped in some people. Usually, the peroneal artery makes up the difference in terms of blood supply.
Rarely, both the anterior and posterior tibial arteries are absent and alternative pathways are needed for blood flow.
Associated Conditions
Several diseases can severely impact the anterior tibial artery. They can include:
- Anterior tibial artery entrapment: When the artery is compressed by other structures (usually muscles or tendons), blood flow is reduced, causing lower leg pain, which is generally brought on by activities using those leg muscles and improves with rest.
- Exertional compartment syndrome: This condition, also called chronic compartment syndrome, is due to increased pressure in the compartment during exercise when the muscles increase in volume but the connective tissue cover does not expand.
- Acute compartment syndrome: Trauma or injury may cause acute compartment syndrome. Swelling or bleeding in the compartment leads to increased pressure in the compartment, causing pain, swelling, and possible nerve damage.
- Peripheral artery disease: With this condition, blood flow is restricted due to plaque buildup and stiffness in the artery. It’s more common in older people but those diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of smoking may be at higher risk.
Summary
The anterior tibial artery supplies blood to the front of the lower leg and becomes the dorsalis pedis artery at the ankle, as well as branching off into other vessels that serve the lower leg. The anterior tibial artery itself first branches off from the popliteal artery found behind the knee.
FAQs
- What is the anterior tibial artery?
The anterior tibial artery is a branch of the popliteal artery that delivers oxygenated blood to the anterior (front-facing) part of the leg. - What conditions can affect the anterior tibial artery?
Several conditions, including compartment syndrome, peripheral artery disease, and entrapment, can impact the health and function of the anterior tibial artery. - How common is the anterior tibial artery?
More than 90% of people have no anatomical variation in their anterior tibial artery, but it’s absent or underdeveloped in some people.
