Morphometric Analysis, Anatomical Variations and Histological Evaluation of the Dorsalis Pedis Artery in Human Cadavers: Implications for Clinical and Surgical Practice

Purpose The dorsalis pedis artery (DPA), the primary arterial supply to the dorsum of the foot, is a critical landmark in clinical and surgical procedures. While its morphometry and variations has been well studied, limited data exist on its histological characteristics. This study aimed to analyze the histology, morphometry and anatomical variations of the DPA. Methods Fifty lower limbs from 25 cadavers were examined at the Department of Anatomy, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, following IEC approval. The length of the DPA and arcuate artery was measured. The distance of the arcuate artery from the origin of the dorsalis pedis artery and the distance of DPA from the medial and lateral malleolus were also measured. A segment distal to the mid-malleolar point was harvested for histological analysis. Anatomical variations were documented. Results The mean DPA length was 7.53 ± 0.53 cm (right) and 8.0 ± 2.02 cm (left). The arcuate artery measured 4.8 ± 1.82 cm (right) and 4.9 ± 0.91 cm (left), arising approximately 4.41 ± 1.42 cm and 4.6 ± 1.11 cm from the DPA origin on the right and left sides, respectively. Four variations in the emergence of dorsal metatarsal arteries were observed. Histological findings included basophilic calcification of the tunica media in six specimens—three with additional involvement of the internal elastic lamina—and thrombotic occlusion with tunica intima disruption in three cases. Conclusion Detailed knowledge of the DPA’s morphometry and histology enhances the precision of surgical interventions and supports early diagnosis of peripheral vascular pathologies.