Dorsalis Metatarsal Arteries, Lateral View

Description

Angling laterally along the male lower leg and dorsum of the foot, the tibia lies medial to the slender fibula, with the talus superior to the calcaneus and the metatarsals projecting distally toward the phalanges. Red arterial channels track anterior to the ankle onto the dorsum, where the dorsalis metatarsal arteries run distally within the intermetatarsal spaces, sandwiched between adjacent metatarsal shafts and the overlying extensor tendons. Blue veins accompany the arterial network more superficially, converging proximally toward the anterior leg. Bony landmarks stay readable. From this lateral perspective, the course of the dorsal arterial arcade and its metatarsal branches becomes easier to follow in relation to the ankle and tarsometatarsal region, where the dorsalis pedis artery transitions into the dorsal metatarsal arteries and perforating branches communicate with the plantar circulation. That relationship matters in diabetic foot ischemia and peripheral arterial disease, when clinicians compare pedal pulses and perfusion patterns and when surgeons plan incisions that risk injuring dorsal vessels during Lisfranc fracture fixation or dorsal approaches to the metatarsals. It also supports teaching why forefoot wounds can perfuse poorly if both dorsal and plantar contributions are compromised. Ideal for gross anatomy lab atlases, podiatric surgery teaching files, and vascular education modules that need a clear lateral map of the metatarsal arterial tree against the tibia, fibula, and foot skeleton, including paired superficial veins for orientation. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.