Costocervical trunk

Costocervical trunk is a branch of the subclavian artery that supplies blood to the upper part of the body, including the neck and chest. The term "costocervical" is derived from the Latin words "costa" meaning rib and "cervix" meaning neck.

Anatomy

The costocervical trunk arises from the second part of the subclavian artery, posterior to the scalene muscle. It ascends to the neck and divides into two branches: the deep cervical artery and the supreme intercostal artery.

Deep Cervical Artery

The deep cervical artery runs upward and backward between the transverse process of the seventh cervical vertebra and the neck of the first rib, then continues upward in the posterior triangle of the neck, lying on the semispinalis cervicis. It supplies the muscles and skin in the suboccipital region.

Supreme Intercostal Artery

The supreme intercostal artery descends to supply the first and second intercostal spaces, as well as the upper two posterior intercostal arteries.

Clinical Significance

The costocervical trunk is an important structure in the body as it supplies blood to the upper part of the body. Any blockage or damage to this artery can lead to serious health problems, including stroke and heart attack.

See Also

• Subclavian artery
• Deep cervical artery
• Supreme intercostal artery

References

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Costocervical trunk

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