Vessel
Brachial artery
Main artery of the arm
High-yield
Pulse and blood pressure are measured here; it bifurcates into radial and ulnar arteries at the neck of the radius in the cubital fossa.
Overview
The continuation of the axillary artery down the arm that divides into the radial and ulnar arteries in the cubital fossa.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Axillary artery
- Branches / tributaries
- Deep brachial (profunda brachii) artery; Superior and inferior ulnar collateral arteries; Radial and ulnar arteries (terminal)
- Supplies
- The arm and (via terminal branches) the forearm and hand
- Course
- Descends medially in the arm, crosses the cubital fossa medial to the biceps tendon, and bifurcates at the level of the radial neck
Clinical correlation
Supracondylar humeral fracture can injure the brachial artery → risk of Volkmann's ischemic contracture.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the brachial artery originate?
The brachial artery arises from the axillary artery.
What does the brachial artery supply?
The brachial artery supplies the arm and (via terminal branches) the forearm and hand.
What are the branches of the brachial artery?
Branches of the brachial artery include the deep brachial (profunda brachii) artery; Superior and inferior ulnar collateral arteries; Radial and ulnar arteries (terminal).
What is the course of the brachial artery?
Descends medially in the arm, crosses the cubital fossa medial to the biceps tendon, and bifurcates at the level of the radial neck.