European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

VARIANT BRANCHING PATTERN OF AXILLARY ARTERY AND ITS CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Sanchita* and Dr. Uma B Gopal

ABSTRACT

Variations in the branching pattern of the axillary artery are not uncommon. The knowledge of these variations is of anatomical, radiological, and surgical interest to explain unexpected clinical signs and symptoms. Axillary artery pulsations serve as a landmark for clinical procedures like brachial plexus block and subclavian vein puncture. It is also increasingly being utilized as a graft for coronary artery bypass. The present article reports a variant branching pattern of 1st and 2nd part of axillary artery. This variation may have important clinical implications while performing reconstructive surgeries and also the common trunk from 2nd part of artery can be used for bypass. 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.

Keywords: Axillary artery, brachial plexus block, subclavian vein puncture, coronary artery bypass, common trunk.