Intercostal arteries

Diagram of the intercostal arteries and their branches.

The intercostal arteries are a group of arteries that supply blood to the area between the ribs, known as the intercostal space. These arteries are crucial for providing oxygenated blood to the muscles and tissues of the thoracic wall.

Anatomy

The intercostal arteries are divided into two main groups: the posterior intercostal arteries and the anterior intercostal arteries.

Posterior intercostal arteries

The posterior intercostal arteries originate from the thoracic aorta. There are typically eleven pairs of posterior intercostal arteries, each corresponding to an intercostal space. The first two posterior intercostal arteries arise from the supreme intercostal artery, a branch of the costocervical trunk of the subclavian artery.

Anterior intercostal arteries

The anterior intercostal arteries are branches of the internal thoracic artery, which is a branch of the subclavian artery. These arteries supply the anterior portions of the intercostal spaces and anastomose with the posterior intercostal arteries.

Function

The primary function of the intercostal arteries is to supply blood to the intercostal muscles, the overlying skin, and the parietal pleura. They play a vital role in the respiratory system by ensuring that the muscles involved in breathing receive adequate blood supply.

Clinical significance

Damage or blockage of the intercostal arteries can lead to complications such as ischemia of the intercostal muscles or thoracic wall pain. Surgical procedures involving the thoracic cavity must take care to avoid damaging these arteries.

Related pages

• Thoracic aorta
• Internal thoracic artery
• Respiratory system