The arterial communication between the gastrocnemius muscle heads: A freshcadaveric study and clinical implications

The purpose of this investigation was to describe the anatomy of the commun icating (anastomotic) vessels between the gastrocnemius muscle heads and to record the extent of their supply potential. Ensuing clinical implications are discussed. Fourteen fresh cadaveric gastrocnemius muscles were examined. Detailed diss ections of the communicating vessels were facilitated after injections of m ethylene blue or cadaveric blood solutions through the medial, lateral, or both sural arteries. The extent of the arterial cross-supply between the mu scles' heads through these vessels was determined in eight specimens after methylene blue perfusions through the lateral sural arteries, while one spe cimen was examined after injection of methylene blue and yellow ink through the lateral and medial sural arteries, respectively. Communicating vessels were detected in all 14 specimens. A mean number of 5 .8 vascular bundles and single vessels was found. The bundles consisted of arterioles and, as all indications suggested, of concomitant venules as wel l. Regarding arterial cross-supply, it was clearly evident that each head c ould be vascularized solely from the contralateral one, mostly through thes e bundles. However, even if only a part of the bundles was preserved intact , vasculature was not affected.