Arteries of the Upper Limbs

The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. The axillary artery then continues into the arm, becoming the brachial artery, which is the major supplier of blood to the arm and hand. This continuous arterial pathway ensures adequate vascularization of the upper limb structures.

The brachial artery is the major supplier of blood to the arm and hand, running along the medial aspect of the humerus. It plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into the radial and ulnar arteries. This bifurcation is clinically significant for maintaining forearm and hand perfusion.

The radial and ulnar arteries originate from the brachial artery's bifurcation immediately below the elbow. The radial artery supplies the lateral aspect of the forearm and hand and is palpable at the wrist for pulse measurement. The ulnar artery provides blood to the medial aspect of the forearm, and both arteries run parallel to the bones of the same names.

Both the radial and ulnar arteries bifurcate into superficial and deep branches that anastomose with each other, forming the superficial and deep palmar arches. These arches are essential for hand perfusion and supply the hand and fingers through digital arteries branching from them.

The radial and ulnar arteries are vital for forearm circulation, and their integrity is crucial for maintaining hand and digit function. They are commonly used sites for arterial cannulation and pulse monitoring. Injuries or blockages in these arteries can lead to critical conditions such as compartment syndrome or ischemia, requiring immediate medical intervention to restore adequate blood flow and prevent tissue damage.

The axillary artery supplies blood to the chest wall and shoulder through the humeral circumflex arteries, which supply the head of the humerus. The brachial artery gives off deep brachial arteries that supply the posterior aspect of the arm and ulnar collateral arteries that are essential for the elbow's blood supply.

Blood reaches the fingers through digital arteries that branch from the palmar arches. These arches form from the anastomoses of superficial and deep branches of the radial and ulnar arteries at the wrist or carpal region. This branching pattern ensures adequate perfusion to all fingers and maintains hand function.