Posterior tibial artery

A crucial blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the lower leg and foot.

The posterior tibial artery is a major artery of the leg, branching from the popliteal artery, which is located behind the knee. It is responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to various structures in the posterior compartment of the leg as well as to the foot. This artery travels downward along the tibia, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues it nourishes.

Terminologia Anatomica

arteria tibialis posterior

System

Cardiovascular system

Function

The primary role of the posterior tibial artery is to supply blood to the muscles and skin of the back of the lower leg, particularly the deep flexor muscles that facilitate movements such as walking and running. It also plays a vital role in supplying blood to the plantar aspect of the foot, supporting the vascular needs of various foot muscles, tendons, and skin. Additionally, the branches of the posterior tibial artery contribute to the vascularization of the structures within the tarsal tunnel, including the tibialis posterior muscle, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus. Proper blood flow from this artery is essential for maintaining healthy tissue and preventing ischemia, which can lead to pain or dysfunction in the leg and foot.

Location

The posterior tibial artery is located in the posterior compartment of the leg, beginning at the apex of the popliteal fossa, which is located behind the knee. As it descends, it moves down the medial side of the leg, nestled between the superficial and deep muscles. It typically runs alongside the tibial nerve, traveling posteriorly to the medial malleolus of the ankle, where it becomes more superficial. At this level, the artery divides into the medial and lateral plantar arteries, which supply blood to the sole of the foot.

Did You Know?

The posterior tibial artery is often assessed in medical examinations to check for peripheral artery disease by examining the pulse at the ankle.
Variations in the anatomy of the posterior tibial artery are common and may include different branching patterns or additional smaller arteries.
A significant field of interest in vascular surgery focuses on the preservation and bypass surgery of the posterior tibial artery to maintain blood flow in cases of limb-threatening ischemia.