Overview

The ulnar artery passes deep to the deep head of pronator teres and to flexor digitorum superficialis. Near its origin it gives off the common interosseous artery, which divides into the anterior and posterior interosseous arteries. In the distal two-thirds of the forearm it runs between flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor digitorum profundus, with the ulnar nerve on its medial side.

At the wrist it lies lateral to the pisiform and superficial to the flexor retinaculum, inside Guyon's (ulnar) canal alongside the ulnar nerve. It then divides into the superficial palmar arch, its main continuation, and a deep palmar branch.

Anatomy

Branches: The anterior and posterior ulnar recurrent arteries; the common interosseous artery, which divides into the anterior and posterior interosseous arteries; muscular branches; palmar and dorsal carpal branches; the deep palmar branch; and the superficial palmar arch.

Function

Supplies the medial forearm, the deep flexors and, through the interosseous arteries, the deep compartments.
Provides the main supply to the superficial palmar arch and the fingers.

Clinical significance

Hypothenar hammer syndrome

Repeatedly using the heel of the hand as a hammer can damage the ulnar artery in Guyon's canal, where it lies over the hook of the hamate. It may thrombose or form an aneurysm, causing ischaemia of the ring and little fingers.

Ulnar pulse

The ulnar pulse is felt lateral to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon at the wrist. It is weaker and harder to feel than the radial pulse.

Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Cardiovascular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.