The anastomosis around the elbow joint between the profunda brachii artery and the radial recurrent artery maintains circulation after brachial artery ligation above which structure?

• A Above the origin of the radial artery
• B Above the origin of the profunda brachii
• C Below the medial epicondyle
• D Distal to the origin of the profunda brachii (above elbow joint) ✓

Explanation

The anastomotic network at the elbow (formed between the radial and ulnar recurrent arteries, and the medial and lateral collateral branches of the profunda brachii) allows collateral flow to the forearm if the brachial artery is ligated distal to the origin of the profunda brachii (below the teres major). Ligation proximal to the profunda brachii origin risks ischemia because the major collateral channel is excluded. This principle guides surgical planning for brachial artery injuries.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.