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Arteries of the upper extremity

Dr Omar Bashir et al.

The upper extremities are supplied by the vessels arising from the subclavian arteries.

Subclavian artery

The right subclavian artery artery originates from the brachiocephalic trunk whereas the left subclavian artery originates form the aortic arch.

Axillary artery

The axillary artery is the continuation of the subclavian artery. The proximal limit of the axillary artery is the outer border of the first rib, its distal limit is the lower border of the teres major muscle.

Brachial artery

The brachial artery is the continuation of the axillary artery. The proximal limit of the brachial artery is the lower border of the teres major muscle. The brachial usually terminates just below the elbow by dividing into the radial and ulnar arteries.

Radial artery

The radial artery is one of the terminal branches of the brachial artery. It courses along the radius and forms various anastomotic arches with the ulnar artery in the wrist and palmar region.

Ulnar artery

The ulnar artery is larger terminal branch of the brachial artery. It courses along the ulnar aspect of the forearm and forms various anastomotic arches with the radial artery in the wrist and palmar region.

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