Scapular artery

Scapular Artery

The scapular artery and its branches.

The Scapular Artery is a major blood vessel that supplies the scapula, the large triangular bone in the upper back. It is a branch of the subclavian artery, which is the main artery that supplies blood to the upper limbs and chest.

Anatomy

The scapular artery originates from the third part of the subclavian artery. It travels posteriorly, passing between the scalene muscles and the cervical vertebrae to reach the scapula. It then divides into two main branches: the dorsal scapular artery and the circumflex scapular artery.

The dorsal scapular artery supplies blood to the rhomboid muscles and the levator scapulae muscle, while the circumflex scapular artery supplies the infraspinatus muscle, teres major muscle, and teres minor muscle.

Clinical Significance

The scapular artery is important in surgical procedures involving the shoulder and upper back. Its location and branches must be carefully considered to avoid damage and ensure adequate blood supply to the muscles and bones of the region.

See Also

• Subclavian artery
• Scapula
• Dorsal scapular artery
• Circumflex scapular artery