Anatomy · Upper Limb

Axillary artery: parts, branches, relations and applied anatomy

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  • Axillary artery: continuation of the subclavian artery, chief artery of the upper limb.
    • Extends from the outer border of the first rib to the lower border of teres major, continuing there as the brachial artery.

Course, Parts and Relations

  • In the axilla it runs along the lateral wall, nearer the anterior than the posterior wall, from apex to base.
  • Crossed superficially by pectoralis minor, which divides it into three parts: first (above), second (deep to), third (below) the muscle.
  • Axillary vein lies medial to the artery throughout its course.

course and branches of the axillary artery Course and branches of the axillary artery.

Relations of the three parts of the axillary artery