Anterior Tibial Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The anterior tibial artery is an artery of the lower limb. It supplies the anterior compartment of the leg and the dorsal foot. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The anterior tibial artery is a branch of the popliteal artery. It arises at the lower border of the popliteus muscle in the posterior leg. After its origin, the anterior tibial artery passes through a gap in the interosseous membrane to enter the anterior compartment of the leg. It then descends through the anterior compartment. It passes initially in a plane between the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscles, and then distally between the tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus. It continues onto the dorsum of the foot, where it becomes the dorsalis pedis artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Arterial supply to the anterior and posterior leg is via the popliteal artery and its branches. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Prosection of the deep anterior leg, demonstrating the anterior leg muscles and neurovascular structures Prosection of the deep anterior leg, demonstrating the anterior leg muscles and neurovascular structures You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Supply The anterior tibial artery supplies the anterior compartment of the leg and the dorsal foot through the following branches: Posterior tibial recurrent artery – supplies the proximal tibiofibular joint. Anterior tibial recurrent artery – contributes to the patellar anastomosis supplying the knee joint. Muscular branches – supply the muscles of the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg. Perforating branches – supply the overlying skin and subcutaneous tissue. Anterior medial malleolar artery – anastomoses with the posterior tibial and medial plantar arteries. Anterior lateral malleolar artery – joins the perforating branch of the fibular artery as well as the ascending branches of the lateral tarsal artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The anterior tibial artery supplies the muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg. Frequent questions What is the function of the anterior tibial artery? The anterior tibial artery supplies blood to the anterior compartment of the leg and the dorsal aspect of the foot. It plays a crucial role in delivering oxygenated blood to the muscles and tissues in these areas. Where does the anterior tibial artery originate? The anterior tibial artery branches off from the popliteal artery at the lower border of the popliteus muscle in the posterior leg. This anatomical location is significant for understanding its course and connections. What are the main branches of the anterior tibial artery? The anterior tibial artery gives rise to several branches, including the posterior tibial recurrent artery, anterior tibial recurrent artery, and muscular branches. These branches supply the knee joint, muscles of the leg, and surrounding skin and tissues. How does the anterior tibial artery travel through the leg? After its origin, the anterior tibial artery passes through the interosseous membrane to enter the anterior compartment, initially located between the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscles. It then continues distally between the tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus before reaching the dorsum of the foot. What is the clinical significance of the anterior tibial artery? The anterior tibial artery is essential for supplying the anterior compartment of the leg and the dorsal foot, which is vital for movement and function. Its branches also contribute to important anastomoses, such as those around the knee and ankle, which can be clinically relevant in cases of vascular compromise. Rate This Article