Bilateral anatomic variation in the vascular pattern of the profunda brachii artery in a male cadaver

Profunda brachii artery (PBA), known also as the deep artery of the arm, constitutes the largest branch of the brachial artery (BA). Its anatomical variations are due to abnormalities during embryologic development and considered among anatomists as a rare finding, especially if they are found bilaterally. We present a case of a bilateral origin of the profunda brachii from the posterior circumflex humeral artery (PCHA). Awareness towards variations in the vascular branching pattern of the upper limbs is considered essential for plastic, vascular and general surgery and radiology as well. Key words: profunda brachii artery, posterior circumflex humeral artery, anatomical variation, upper limb, vascular branching