Clinically relevant variations in the origin and course of the radial artery

The radial artery is an essential artery supplying the structures in the forearm. Variations in the radial artery concerning its origin, course, branching pattern, and mode of termination have been commonly reported. The high origin of the radial artery from either brachial or axillary artery was detected in numerous studies. Clinically-radial artery is used in cardiac catheterization and bypass graft; thus, the knowledge of these variations is of utmost significance to the surgeons. 

In the present study, dissection was conducted on 51 upper limb specimens. The explored specimens were obtained from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (NUST), Oman. Moreover, variations observed in the origin and course of the radial artery were noted and later photographed.

Out of the 51 upper limb specimens studied, variation in the origin of the radial artery was observed from the axillary artery in one specimen and the brachial artery in 3 limbs. The course of these varied arteries was superficial in the forearm.

The knowledge of the variations in the origin and course of the radial artery will help prevent any untoward side effects that can occur during any procedures involving the radial artery.