Vessel
Subclavian artery
Supply route beneath the collarbone
High-yield
Anterior scalene passes in front of the artery and divides it into three anatomical parts. The arterial route passes between anterior and middle scalene on its way toward the arm.
Overview
Each subclavian artery carries blood toward an upper limb while sending branches to the neck, chest and posterior brain circulation. The artery becomes axillary after crossing the lateral border of the first rib.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually from the brachiocephalic trunk on the right and directly from the aortic arch on the left
- Course
- Arches across the root of the neck, behind anterior scalene and over rib 1; continues as axillary beyond the rib's lateral edge
- Branches
- Vertebral and internal thoracic arteries, thyrocervical and costocervical trunks; the dorsal scapular artery may arise directly or through another branch
- Supplies
- Upper limb and portions of the neck and chest wall, with vertebral branches contributing to brain and spinal-cord supply
Clinical correlation
A narrowing before the vertebral artery origin can draw blood backward through the vertebral artery on that side. This subclavian steal phenomenon is often asymptomatic; when symptoms occur, reduced arm or posterior brain circulation may contribute.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the subclavian artery originate?
Usually from the brachiocephalic trunk on the right and directly from the aortic arch on the left.
What does the subclavian artery supply?
The subclavian artery supplies the upper limb and portions of the neck and chest wall, with vertebral branches contributing to brain and spinal-cord supply.
What are the branches of the subclavian artery?
Vertebral and internal thoracic arteries, thyrocervical and costocervical trunks; the dorsal scapular artery may arise directly or through another branch.
What is the course of the subclavian artery?
Arches across the root of the neck, behind anterior scalene and over rib 1; continues as axillary beyond the rib's lateral edge.