Anatomy of the Brachial Plexus

Brachial Plexus and Axillary
Artery
Background Knowledge
The artery + nerve are usually in locations where they are best protected
⇒ In the flexion surface + hollow space created by bones and muscles (canal +
fossa)

Nerve + vessels will also go the shortest way and supply the closest
structures

Arterial circulation of structure which function
frequently will need to form collateral
circulation ⇒ Anastomosis




Axilla:
Wall
An irregularly shaped pyramidal
areas of transition from neck ⇒
upper limb

Components:

Apex (inlet) : connect the neck and
the axilla

Base (floor): Skin (axillary fossa)

Anterior Wall: Pectoralis major and
minor



Brachial Plexus and Axillary Artery 1

, Posterior Wall: Posterior axillary
fold

Lateral Wall: Humerus

Medial Wall: Thoracis cage and
serratus anterior muscle




Content of the Axilla
Cords and branches of brachiall
plexus

Axillary artery + its branches

Axillary vein and its tributaries

Axillary lymph nodes

Axillary lymphatic vessels

Axillary fat

Loose CT




Axillary Artery
Origin: from the subclavian artery
(SA) at the lateral of first rib

Termination: Below the inferior
border of teres major/pectoralis
major




Brachial Plexus and Axillary Artery 2