Abstract
Anatomic variations in branching pattern of axillary artery (AxA) are common and typically
involve subscapular artery (SsA) and posterior circumflex humeral artery (PCHA). Several
skin and muscle flaps are based on the branches of AxA. Furthermore, these branches
are frequently used as recipient vessels in functioning free muscle transfers for
upper extremity reconstruction and in breast reconstruction. Accurate knowledge of
the normal anatomy and variations in branching pattern of AxA is of significant clinical
importance for the reconstructive microsurgeon. The purpose of this article is to
report the variable branching pattern of AxA based on multidetector-row computed tomography
angiography study of 62 upper extremities. The thoracoacromial artery consistently
originated from the first or second part of AxA. The classic origin and branching
patterns of SsA and PCHA were observed in 21 cases (33.9%). Anatomic variations of
SsA and PCHA were observed in 41 upper extremities (66.1%). In addition to the classic
pattern, five distinct variations were noted.
Keywords
axillary artery - subscapular artery - thoracoacromial artery