Posterior circumflex artery

Posterior Circumflex Artery

The axillary artery and its branches, including the posterior circumflex artery (labeled as posterior circumflex humeral).

The Posterior Circumflex Artery (also known as the Posterior Circumflex Humeral Artery) is a significant artery in the human anatomy. It is a branch of the third part of the axillary artery and runs posteriorly with the axillary nerve through the quadrangular space.

Structure

The Posterior Circumflex Artery arises from the axillary artery, one of the major arteries in the upper limb. It courses posteriorly, winding around the surgical neck of the humerus, in company with the axillary nerve, through the quadrangular space. The artery gives off several branches to the deltoid muscle and shoulder joint.

Function

The primary function of the Posterior Circumflex Artery is to supply blood to the deltoid muscle, the shoulder joint, and the triceps brachii muscle. It also provides some blood supply to the skin overlying the deltoid muscle.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the Posterior Circumflex Artery is crucial in surgical procedures involving the shoulder joint and upper limb. Damage to this artery during surgery can lead to significant blood loss and potential complications.

See also

• Axillary artery
• Axillary nerve
• Deltoid muscle
• Shoulder joint

External links

• Posterior Circumflex Artery at AnatomyExpert.com