Superficial branch of ulnar nerve - Upper extremity - Peripheral nervous system - e-Anatomy
View the module

Superficial branch of ulnar nerve

Ramus superficialis nervi ulnaris

  • Related terms: Superficial branch; Superficial branch (Ulnar nerve)

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

The superficial branch of ulnar nerve arises as one of the terminal branches of the ulnar nerve in the palm, which divides into superficial and deep branches after crossing the wrist. As the ulnar nerve crosses the wrist, it passes over the flexor retinaculum (outside the carpal tunnel) and lies between the pisiform bone (medially) and the ulnar artery (laterally).

Branches

The superficial branch of ulnar nerve gives off muscular and cutaneous branches:

1. Muscular Branches

Supply the palmaris brevis muscle.

2. Cutaneous Branches

Its cutaneous branches include two palmar digital nerves (medial and lateral) that provide sensory innervation to the medial one and a half fingers:

  • Medial Palmar Digital Nerve: This proper palmar digital nerve innervates the skin of the medial side of the little finger.

  • Lateral Palmar Digital Nerve: This common palmar digital nerve splits into two proper palmar digital nerves, innervating the adjoining skin of the ring and little fingers.

  • Additionally, the superficial branch of ulnar nerve gives off a communicating branch to the median nerve in the palm.

References

  • Gray, H. (2016). ‘Chapter 48: Shoulder girdle and arm’ in Gray’s anatomy the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 832, 863-864.

  • Gray, H. (2016). ‘Chapter 50: Wrist and hand’ in Gray’s anatomy the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 881-886, 893.

  • Becker RE, Manna B. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Ulnar Nerve. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499892/

Gallery