Suprascapular artery

Suprascapular artery is a branch of the thyrocervical trunk, which is a branch of the subclavian artery. It supplies blood to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, which are part of the rotator cuff of the shoulder.

Etymology

The term "suprascapular" is derived from the Latin words "supra," meaning above, and "scapula," meaning shoulder blade. Thus, the suprascapular artery is named for its location above the scapula, or shoulder blade.

Anatomy

The suprascapular artery arises from the thyrocervical trunk, travels across the posterior triangle of the neck, and passes over the superior transverse scapular ligament at the suprascapular notch. It then branches to supply the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles.

Clinical significance

The suprascapular artery can be involved in several medical conditions. For example, it can be compressed by a cyst or tumor, leading to suprascapular nerve entrapment. This can cause shoulder pain and weakness. In addition, the artery can be damaged during shoulder surgery, leading to hemorrhage or ischemia.

Related terms

• Thyrocervical trunk
• Subclavian artery
• Supraspinatus muscle
• Infraspinatus muscle
• Rotator cuff
• Superior transverse scapular ligament
• Suprascapular notch
• Suprascapular nerve entrapment
• Cyst
• Tumor
• Hemorrhage
• Ischemia

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Suprascapular artery

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  Thyrocervical trunk

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration 521