Subcutaneous superficial palmar arch - an unusual variant

Sushama Kalidas CHAVAN, Rajend

Abstract

Superficial palmar arch is the source of blood supply to hand. Formed by continuation of ulnar artery and completed usually by superficial branch of radial artery. The arch lies deep to the palmar aponeurosis. In our routine dissection for students, we came across an unusual variant of superficial palmar arch in the right hand. It was present in a plane. The branching pattern was also variable showing four common palmar digital branches. The case along with its embryological basis and clinical relevance is discussed.