24.27:
Arteries of the Upper Limbs
The upper limbs get blood supply through the arteries arising from the subclavian artery.
These arteries initially run laterally between the clavicle and first rib and then enter the armpit.
The axillary artery is the continuation of the subclavian artery into the armpit. It travels through the axillary region and supplies blood to the chest wall and shoulder.
The axillary artery extends down into the arm, becoming the brachial artery.
It is the major supplier of blood to the arm and hand, and runs along the humerus on its medial aspect.
Immediately below the elbow, the brachial artery divides into the radial and ulnar arteries.
The radial artery supplies the lateral aspect of the forearm and hand. It is palpable at the wrist at which pulse is measured.
The ulnar artery provides blood to the medial aspect of the forearm.
Both the radial and ulnar arteries bifurcate into superficial and deep branches. These corresponding branches anastomose with each other, forming the palmar arches that supply the hand and fingers.
24.27:
Arteries of the Upper Limbs
The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. This artery is critical for supplying blood to the shoulder area, including the head of the humerus, through the humeral circumflex arteries. As the vessel continues into the upper arm or brachium, it becomes the brachial artery. This artery plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into several branches. These branches include the deep brachial arteries, which supply the posterior aspect of the arm, and the ulnar collateral arteries, which are essential for the elbow's blood supply.
The brachial artery's bifurcation at the elbow into the radial and ulnar arteries is clinically significant. These arteries are vital for forearm circulation, and their integrity is crucial for maintaining hand and digit function. The radial and ulnar arteries run parallel to the bones of the same names and continue down to the wrist or carpal region. Here, they form the superficial and deep palmar arches, which are essential for hand perfusion. The digital arteries, branching from these arches, are responsible for supplying blood to the fingers.
Clinically, the radial and ulnar arteries are also commonly used sites for arterial cannulation and pulse monitoring. Additionally, injuries or blockages in these arteries can lead to critical conditions such as compartment syndrome or ischemia, requiring immediate medical intervention to restore adequate blood flow and prevent tissue damage.