Anatomical Variations in the Origin, Course, Branching Pattern, and Termination of the Dorsalis Pedis Artery in the Human Lower Limb: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

Background: The dorsalis pedis artery (DPA) is an important artery of the dorsum of the foot and is clinically relevant for peripheral vascular assessment and surgical procedures. Variations in its origin, course, branching pattern, and termination may have important clinical implications. Aim: To study the anatomical variations in the origin, course, branching pattern, and termination of the dorsalis pedis artery in human lower limbs. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cadaveric study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Surat, over a period of two years. A total of 60 lower limbs obtained from human cadavers were dissected using standard anatomical techniques. The DPA was identified and traced from its origin to its terminal branches. Variations in origin, course, branching pattern, and termination were documented and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The dorsalis pedis artery demonstrated the usual anatomical pattern in the majority of specimens. Variations were observed in its origin, course, branching pattern, and termination. The branching pattern showed the greatest degree of variation, while variation in origin was comparatively less frequent. Overall, 18 of 60 limbs demonstrated one or more anatomical variations. Conclusion: The dorsalis pedis artery exhibits appreciable anatomical variability despite a predominantly conventional pattern. Detailed knowledge of these variations is important for peripheral vascular assessment and for surgical, reconstructive, and interventional procedures involving the ankle and dorsum of the foot.

Keywords: Dorsalis pedis artery; anatomical variation; cadaveric study; branching pattern; arterial anatomy; foot.