Vessel
Axillary artery
Artery of the axilla
High-yield
Three parts by pectoralis minor (1/2/3 branches); the posterior circumflex humeral artery accompanies the axillary nerve in the quadrangular space.
Overview
The continuation of the subclavian artery through the axilla, divided into three parts by pectoralis minor, that becomes the brachial artery at the lower border of teres major.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Subclavian artery
- Branches / tributaries
- Superior thoracic; Thoracoacromial; Lateral thoracic; Subscapular; Anterior and posterior circumflex humeral arteries
- Supplies
- Shoulder region, axilla, and proximal upper limb
- Course
- Runs from the outer border of the first rib through the axilla, becoming the brachial artery at the inferior border of teres major
Frequently asked questions
Where does the axillary artery originate?
The axillary artery arises from the subclavian artery.
What does the axillary artery supply?
The axillary artery supplies the shoulder region, axilla, and proximal upper limb.
What are the branches of the axillary artery?
Branches of the axillary artery include the superior thoracic; Thoracoacromial; Lateral thoracic; Subscapular; Anterior and posterior circumflex humeral arteries.
What is the course of the axillary artery?
Runs from the outer border of the first rib through the axilla, becoming the brachial artery at the inferior border of teres major.