The posterior interosseous artery originates in the anterior compartment from the common interosseous branch of the ulnar artery and passes posteriorly over the proximal margin of the interosseous membrane and into the posterior compartment of the forearm. It contributes a branch, the recurrent interosseous artery (see Fig. 7.66B), to the vascular network around the elbow joint and then passes between the supinator and abductor pollicis longus muscles to supply the superficial extensors. After receiving the terminal end of the anterior interosseous artery, the posterior interosseous artery terminates by joining the dorsal carpal arch of the wrist.