The peroneal artery supplies blood to the lateral portion of the leg. It originates in the posterior tibial artery and is connected to the dorsal artery of the foot, the lateral tarsal artery, the lateral malleolar artery, and the lateral plantar arteries. The peroneal artery distributes blood to the soleus muscle, the fibula muscles, the ankle joint, the big toe long flexor muscle, and the inferior tibiofibular articulation. The peroneal artery is also connected to small veins known as the fibular veins. The peroneal artery is less likely to be injured than the popliteal and tibial arteries because of its location. A pseudoaneurysm of the peroneal artery due to blunt injury is a rare complication. In surgery, a pedicled peroneal artery perforator flap can be used to prevent an intractable wound due to defects in the lower leg while bones or tendons are exposed. A recent study showed that use of the flap resulted in quick venous decongestion without complications.
Written and medically reviewed by the Healthline Editorial Team
In Depth: Peroneal artery