Articular branch of the axillary artery and its clinical implication

Shashi Kant Pandey1, Satyanaryan Shamal, Sushil Kumar

  • 1Department of Anatomy, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, India. pandeyskbhu@rediffmail.com

Insights

This study details the rare articular branch of the axillary artery, observed in 43.9% of dissections. Findings reveal significant gender-based differences in its occurrence, impacting shoulder joint anatomy.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • The axillary artery is a critical vessel supplying the upper limb.
  • Variations in its branches can impact surgical procedures and clinical understanding.
  • The articular branch of the axillary artery is infrequently documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the origin, course, and variations of the articular branch of the axillary artery.
  • To analyze the prevalence and laterality of this arterial branch.
  • To determine potential gender-related differences in its anatomical presentation.

Main Methods:

  • Routine anatomical dissection of 344 axillae.
  • Recording the presence, origin, and course of the articular branch.
  • Statistical analysis to compare prevalence between sexes and sides.

Main Results:

  • The articular branch was identified in 43.9% of the dissected axillae.
  • Significant gender-based differences in prevalence were observed (P < 0.001).
  • The branch typically originated from the lateral aspect of the second part of the axillary artery.

Conclusions:

  • The articular branch of the axillary artery exhibits significant variations.
  • Understanding these variations is crucial for surgeons operating on the shoulder joint.
  • This rare observation highlights the importance of detailed anatomical knowledge in clinical practice.

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