Musculophrenic artery

Musculophrenic Artery

The thoracic aorta, viewed from the left side. (Musculophrenic artery visible at center right.)

The Musculophrenic Artery is a large blood vessel that branches off from the internal thoracic artery. It supplies blood to the diaphragm, the intercostal muscles, and the anterior abdominal wall.

Structure

The musculophrenic artery originates from the internal thoracic artery, usually at the level of the sixth rib. It descends obliquely, following the curvature of the rib cage, and terminates at the diaphragm. Along its course, it gives off several branches, including the anterior intercostal arteries and the superior epigastric artery.

Function

The primary function of the musculophrenic artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in respiration. It also supplies blood to the intercostal muscles, which assist in respiration, and to the anterior abdominal wall.

Clinical significance

Damage to the musculophrenic artery can lead to significant blood loss, as it is a large and important blood vessel. It may be involved in conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome and abdominal aortic aneurysm.

See also

• Internal thoracic artery
• Diaphragm (anatomy)
• Intercostal muscles
• Anterior abdominal wall