Sonographic and Cadaveric Study of High-Origin Radial Artery

Abstract

Background: The radial artery usually branches from the brachial artery near the neck of the radius in the distal antecubital fossa. However, anatomical variations are common, with high-origin radial arteries reported in 0.5–14.27% of cases. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of high-originating radial arteries (HORA) in vivo via ultrasound in living subjects and through cadaveric dissections. Study Design: Case control study. Settings: Northumbria University's St. George's International School of Medicine (UK), RLMC Lahore, FJMU Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Two and a half years from 2019-2022. Methods: Using GE LOGIQ e and SonoSite MicroMaxx ultrasound equipment with 12L-RS & A L38e 10-5MHz transducer, respectively, 300 upper limbs on both sides of 150 persons were investigated. The radial artery was located, followed by a proximal and distal trace to its origin, noting its course and relationships with other anatomical structures. This variance was examined in 95 cadaveric limbs using a standard dissection procedure. Results: HORA was found in 23/300 upper limbs. In the participants studied, the HORA were found to occur unilaterally, predominantly on the left side (15/23 cases). Conclusion: For radiologists, anatomists, and surgeons, variations in the radial artery's anatomical route and relationships are significant. The presence of HORA affects cardiac catheterization and artery grafting therapies both surgically and clinically. Its narrow course makes it more prone to injury during medication delivery and cannulation, as well as trauma. Bedside ultrasonography techniques can be useful for both identifying before such interventions and for future anatomical analysis.