Nutrient artery of fibula
Arteria nutricia fibulae
- Latin synonym: Arteria nutriens fibulae
- Synonym: Fibular nutrient artery
- Related terms: Fibular nutrient artery
Definition
The nutrient artery of the fibula typically penetrates the fibula at the middle third of the diaphysis, usually entering from the medial aspect of the bone.
In the majority of cases, there is a single nutrient artery, although variations can occur. Approximately 90% of specimens have a single nutrient artery, while about 6.6% have double nutrient arteries, and in rare cases (3.3%), no nutrient artery is observed. The nutrient artery typically has a diameter ranging from 0.9 to 1.5 mm and is most commonly located near the middle third of the fibula.
The nutrient artery is crucial for the vascularization of the fibula, especially in procedures involving vascularized fibular grafts.
References
1.Variations of the Nutrient Artery of the Fibula.Kocabiyik N, Yalçin B, Ozan H.Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.). 2007;20(4):440-3. doi:10.1002/ca.20442.
2.The Arterial Supply of the Ankle Joint and Its Importance for the Operative Fracture Treatment.Giebel GD, Meyer C, Koebke J, Giebel G.Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA. 1997;19(4):231-5. doi:10.1007/BF01627863.
