86 - Using Plastinated Cadaveric Models for Anatomical Study of Dorsalis Pedis Artery and Its Variation

Poster Board Number: 86
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Odd poster #s – first hour
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Co-authors:

Steven Bolton - UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine; Ifunanya Monube - UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine

Abstract Body : Background: Focus on innovative methods of teaching anatomy as part of inaugural medical curriculum has become one of the most important missions for the training of future DPM Physicians at UTRGV, School of Podiatric Medicine. The purpose of this study was to develop a training session on normal anatomy of Dorsalis Pedis Artery of the foot and its variation using the Lower Extremity Plastinated Cadaveric Models.

Materials & Methods: Six Lower Extremity Plastinated Cadaveric Models were prepared for this study. Each Plastinated Cadaveric Model was shown the dissected Dorsalis Pedis Artery at the level of Talar Head and Navicular Bone with different branches of Dorsalis Pedis Artery identified as Medial & Lateral Tarsal Artery, Arcuate Artery and one of its terminal branches, the 1^st Dorsal Metatarsal Artery. Anatomage Virtual Dissection table was utilized to review the course of Anterior Tibial Artery, Dorsalis Pedis Artery, and its main branches prior to terminal branches.



Result: Two types of Dorsalis Pedis Artery were found. We found the most common type of Dorsalis Pedis Artery with its termination as the 1^st Dorsal Metatarsal Artery. In addition, we found the rare variation of Dorsalis Pedis Artery with lateral oriented course towards the Second Metatarsal. In all advanced Plastinated Models, no variation for the location-origin of Dorsalis Pedis was reported in any of the Plastinated Cadavers. The continuation of Anterior Tibial Artery as Dorsalis Pedis Artery under the Inferior Extensor Retinaculum was noted in all Plastinated Cadaveric Specimens. In All specimens we were able to locate the Deep Peroneal Nerve within the First Intermetatarsal Space in proximity of Dorsalis Pedis Artery.

Conclusion: The dissected Plastinated Cadaver specimens resulted in an excellent demonstration of the Dorsalis Pedis Artery and its variation of its course within the foot for Podiatry Medical Students. Combined with Anatomage Virtual Dissection Table, the 3D visual understanding of Dorsalis Pedis Artery and its main branches can provide a guideline for Podiatry Medical students on arterial network of the foot.