Lateral thoracic artery
Template:Short description Template:Use American English Template:Use mdy dates Template:Multiple issues
Template:Main other Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherTemplate:Main otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". In the human body, the lateral thoracic artery (or external mammary artery) is a blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to approximately one-third of the lateral structures of the thorax and breast.
It originates from the axillary artery and follows the lower border of the pectoralis minor muscle[1] to the side of the chest to supply the serratus anterior muscle,[2] pectoralis major muscle[3] and pectoralis minor muscle,[4] and sends branches across the axilla to the axillary lymph nodes and subscapularis muscle.
It anastomoses with the internal thoracic artery, subscapular, and intercostal arteries, and with the pectoral branch of the thoracoacromial artery.[5]
In the female it supplies an external mammary branch which turns round the free edge of the pectoralis major and supplies the breasts.[5]
Variations
Variations in the Axillary Artery are quite common.
Differences in its origin, course, branching pattern, and size may cause variations in the number or arrangement of branches arising from the artery. Additionally, anatomical variations such as accessory or duplicated lateral thoracic arteries have been reported in medical literature. These variations can impact surgical procedures and diagnostic imaging interpretations.
In case it is absent the lateral perforating branches of Intercostal arteries take its place.[5]
References
Template:Reflist Public domain This article incorporates text in the public domain from Template:Wikidatathe 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918) Template:Main other and Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, International Edition(2016).
External links
- lesson3axillaryart&vein at The Anatomy Lesson by Wesley Norman (Georgetown University)
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