Which tibio-pedal artery is easiest to access and what is its reference diameter?

• A. Anterior tibial, 2 mm
• B. Posterior tibial, 1 mm
• C. Dorsalis pedis, 3 mm
• D. Peroneal, 2.5 mm

Answer: (A)

Faster, more reliable access comes from a vessel that runs close to the surface and can be felt readily. The anterior tibial artery travels along the front of the lower leg and remains relatively superficial as it approaches the ankle, where it becomes the dorsalis pedis. That superficial path makes it easier to locate and puncture consistently compared with arteries that lie deeper or are more protected by tissue or bone. Its reference diameter is about 2 mm, a practical size for arterial access that balances ease of palpation with sufficient caliber for cannulation in many patients. In contrast, the posterior tibial artery sits deeper behind the medial malleolus and is harder to access; the dorsalis pedis, though on the foot surface, can be highly variable in presence and size; and the peroneal artery is deep within the leg. Therefore, the anterior tibial artery with a 2 mm reference diameter is the most accessible option.