Thoracoacromial artery

The Thoracoacromial artery (pronunciation: tho·ra·co·ac·ro·mi·al ar·te·ry) is a short trunk that arises from the second part of the axillary artery, its origin being generally overlapped by the upper edge of the pectoralis minor.

Etymology

The term "Thoracoacromial" is derived from the Greek words "thorax" meaning chest, and "akromion" meaning the outer part of the shoulder blade. The artery is thus named because it supplies blood to the chest and shoulder regions.

Structure

The thoracoacromial artery passes forward, above the upper border of the pectoralis minor, and pierces the coracoclavicular fascia. It then divides under the pectoralis major into four branches: pectoral, acromial, clavicular, and deltoid.

Pectoral branch

The pectoral branch supplies the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles, and ends in the mammary gland and integument, anastomosing with the internal thoracic artery and intercostal arteries.

Acromial branch

The acromial branch ascends to the acromion, supplying this part, and the deltoid and subdeltoid bursa; it anastomoses with the posterior circumflex artery.

Clavicular branch

The clavicular branch runs medialward to the sternoclavicular articulation, supplying it and the subclavius, and anastomosing with the internal thoracic artery.

Deltoid branch

The deltoid branch runs laterally, beneath the clavicle and acromioclavicular joint, and gives off a few vessels to these parts; it then pierces the deltoid and ends in the muscle.

Clinical significance

The thoracoacromial artery is an important landmark in surgical procedures involving the axillary region. Its branches may also be involved in conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome and pectoralis major injuries.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Thoracoacromial artery
Wikipedia's article - Thoracoacromial artery

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Thoracoacromial artery