Subclavian arteries

Vital arteries that supply blood to the upper limbs and parts of the neck.

Subclavian arteries are paired major arteries located beneath the clavicles, responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the arms and, in part, to the head and neck. There are left and right subclavian arteries, originating from different structures within the cardiovascular system. The right subclavian artery arises from the brachiocephalic trunk, while the left originates directly from the arch of the aorta.

Terminologia Anatomica

a. subclavia

System

Cardiovascular system

Function

The primary function of the subclavian arteries is to provide arterial blood supply to the upper limbs, which encompasses the arms, shoulders, and parts of the neck. They play a critical role in delivering oxygen and nutrients required for the functioning of muscles and tissues in these areas. In addition to limb supply, subclavian arteries branch off into important vessels including the vertebral arteries, which are crucial for supplying blood to the brain. This makes the subclavian arteries essential not only for the extremities but also for cerebral circulation, emphasizing their central role in maintaining overall cardiovascular health and function in the upper body.

Location

The subclavian arteries are located beneath the collarbone (clavicle) bilaterally. Specifically, the right subclavian artery emerges from the brachiocephalic trunk at the level of the first rib, while the left subclavian artery comes directly from the arch of the aorta. As they travel laterally across the thorax, the subclavian arteries run towards the first rib, where they transition into the axillary arteries, marking the boundary where the subclavian artery's role shifts from supplying the thorax to serving the upper limb. The arteries are closely associated with structures such as the brachial plexus, which are important for nerve supply to the upper extremity.

Did You Know?

The left subclavian artery is typically longer than the right subclavian artery due to its origin from the aorta’s arch.
The subclavian arteries have several branches that supply various organs and structures, including the vertebral arteries, which contribute significantly to brain perfusion.
Blockages or damage to the subclavian arteries can lead to serious conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome, which impacts blood flow and nerve function in the arm.
The subclavian artery is a key point of access for various medical procedures, including catheter placement in therapeutic interventions for heart conditions.