Proximal bifurcation of the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery and anomalous superficial course of the distal radial artery

Abstract

Variations of the radial artery are rare, but clinically significant for surgeons when raising a radial forearm free flap. A 68-year-old man presented with an anomaly of the radial artery, which had a proximal bifurcation of the superficial palmar branch and an anomalous superficial course of the distal radial artery, mimicking duplication of the radial artery. A bifurcation of the main vessel was detected approximately 7 cm proximal to the wrist crease. Anastomosis was performed by using the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery. After anastomosis, the anomalously bifurcated deep palmar branch of the radial artery was transected 1 cm distal to the bifurcation. Although variations, such as unusual bifurcations of the radial artery, are extremely rare, surgeons should be aware of possible variations to ensure safe flap harvesting.