Arterial vascularization of the proximal extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon.

The macroscopic arterial vascularization of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon was investigated in 12 elbows from cadavers to provide fundamental anatomic information of this tendon which has been associated with lateral epicondylitis. The arterial blood supply of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon was highly consistent. The radial recurrent artery vascularized the entire proximal tendon through direct branches to the medial and lateral border of the tendon forming a network of small vessels on the surface of the tendon. Important contributions were provided by the posterior branch of the radial collateral artery, and minor contributions were provided by the interosseous recurrent artery. The undersurface of the tendon seemed almost avascular. This observation suggests that potential hypovascular zones might be located at the undersurface of the tendon causing degeneration and partial tear of the tendon, and that this might be an etiologic factor in the pathogenesis of lateral epicondylitis. Additional microvascular studies are necessary to investigate this hypothesis.