Thoracodorsal artery

Thoracodorsal artery is a branch of the subscapular artery that supplies blood to the latissimus dorsi muscle. It is also known as the long subscapular artery.

Etymology

The term "thoracodorsal" is derived from the Greek words "thorax," meaning chest, and "dorsum," meaning back. This is in reference to the artery's location and the areas it supplies.

Anatomy

The thoracodorsal artery originates from the third part of the axillary artery, which is the main artery supplying the upper limb. It travels down the back of the chest wall, supplying the latissimus dorsi muscle. It also gives off branches to the serratus anterior muscle and the skin overlying the latissimus dorsi.

Clinical significance

The thoracodorsal artery is of clinical significance in various surgical procedures. It is often used in microsurgical procedures for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, where it is used to supply a flap of tissue from the back to the chest. It is also used in vascular surgery to bypass blockages in the arteries of the upper limb.

Related terms

• Subscapular artery
• Axillary artery
• Latissimus dorsi muscle
• Serratus anterior muscle
• Microsurgery
• Breast reconstruction
• Mastectomy
• Vascular surgery

Thoracodorsal artery Resources
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