An unusual variation of axillary artery: a case report

An unusual unilateral variation was observed in branching pattern and course of branches of the axillary artery of the left upper limb in an adult male cadaver. The superior thoracic branch of axillary artery had a very unusual course as it passed between the two divisions of the lateral cord of the brachial plexus and then descended down towards the first two intercostal spaces. A common trunk was seen arising from the third part of the axillary artery which divided into anterior and posterior circumflex humeral, subscapular and Profunda brachii artery. The ulnar and radial collaterals arose from the Profunda brachii artery rather than the brachial artery. The knowledge about such variations becomes essential and of utmost significance in various clinical procedures performed by the vascular surgeons, radiologists and clinical anatomists. Moreover, the injuries of the brachial plexus are quite common and require exploration and repair. During such repair surgeries the abnormal arterial branch may be a matter of definite concern if its presence is not kept in mind.