Muscle
Subclavius
Protects subclavian vessels
High-yield
Depresses the clavicle; its own nerve to subclavius arises from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus.
Overview
A small muscle beneath the clavicle that anchors and depresses the clavicle and cushions the subclavian vessels during clavicular fracture.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Junction of the first rib and its costal cartilage
- Insertion
- Inferior surface of the middle third of the clavicle
- Action
- Anchors and depresses the clavicle; stabilises the sternoclavicular joint
- Innervation
- Nerve to subclavius (C5, C6)
- Blood supply
- Clavicular branch of the thoracoacromial artery
Frequently asked questions
What does the subclavius do?
The subclavius anchors and depresses the clavicle; stabilises the sternoclavicular joint.
What nerve innervates the subclavius?
The subclavius is innervated by the nerve to subclavius (C5, C6).
Where does the subclavius attach?
The subclavius originates from the junction of the first rib and its costal cartilage and inserts on the inferior surface of the middle third of the clavicle.
What is the blood supply of the subclavius?
The subclavius is supplied by the clavicular branch of the thoracoacromial artery.