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Dorsal Metacarpal Artery Exam

  • On exam the dorsal metacarpal arteries are not visible or palpable.
  • The dorsal metacarpal arteries can assessed by doppler exam.
Diagrams & Photos
  • Doppler exam of the first dorsal metacarpal artery.
    Doppler exam of the first dorsal metacarpal artery.
  • Dorsal arteries of the digits, hand and carpus.
    Dorsal arteries of the digits, hand and carpus.
Key Points
  • The dorsal metacarpal arteries allow for dorsal flaps that can be used to reconstruct traumatic skin defects.
  • There can be significant individual variability in dorsal metacarpal artery patterns