Anatomy
Course
Continuation of the subclavian artery after it passes the lateral margin of the first rib.
It passes through the axillary inlet in association with the axillary vein, which is anterior to the artery. Separated into three parts by the pectoralis muscles.
Supply
Supplies the distal aspect of the arm.
Clinical
Fracture of the first rib or dislocation of humeral head may result in a compromised blood flow from the axillary artery. However, because there is an abundance of anastomotic networks, this hardly ever results in ischemia of the upper limb.
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