Unusual anatomical variations in plantar metatarsal arteries and plantar arterial arch with surgical significance

Abstract

Background: Critical limb ischemia (CLI) has been a burden on society where revascularization of arteries is the first line of treatment. If the antegrade approach is not possible, retrograde approach through pedal–plantar loop can be done, resulting in better prognosis. For the same reason, assessment of blood vessels of foot in general is practiced before any intervention. Having information about normal anatomy and anatomical variants of these blood vessels could be of great help to the interventionist to reduce the postoperative complications. Context: The authors studied formation of plantar arterial arch, normal anatomy, and anatomical variations in plantar metatarsal arteries (PMTAs) regarding their origin in 50 formalinized adult cadaveric feet. Results and Conclusion: Variations in formation of plantar arterial arch as predominant lateral plantar artery supplying to most of the PMTAs were noted. Common stump of origin for the first and second, then for second and third, and also for the third and fourth PMTAs was found. In two feet, we found common stump of origin for the first PMTA and first dorsal metatarsal artery originating from deep plantar arch. Medial branch from medial plantar artery joined the first PMTA to supply the great toe deep to the transverse metatarsal ligament. In about 28% of specimens, the foot length was ranging from 21.1 cm to 22 cm and the distance between the plantar arterial arch and the posterior margin of heel was ranging between 12 and 13.5 cm. Fibular plantar marginal artery was present in all specimens. Implications: In the retrograde approach for the revascularization in cases with CLI, most of the surgeons are trying the approach through plantar pedal loop or direct puncture of metatarsal arteries. Data collected on plantar metatarsal normal anatomy and anatomical variations can be kept in mind while doing any intervention with better prognosis.