Makindo Medical Notes

Related Subjects: |The Coronary Arteries |The Axillary Artery |The Brachial Artery |The Carotid Artery |The Femoral Artery |The Popliteal artery |The Subclavian Artery |The Iliac Artery |The Brachial Artery |The Axillary Artery |The radial and Ulnar Artery

The brachial artery is a major blood vessel of the upper limb. It is the continuation of the axillary artery beyond the lower border of the teres major muscle and runs down the arm to provide oxygenated blood to the upper limb.

Anatomy of the Brachial Artery

• Origin:
  • The brachial artery begins at the lower border of the teres major muscle as a continuation of the axillary artery.
• Course:
  • Travels down the medial aspect of the arm.
  • Passes anteriorly to the elbow joint within the cubital fossa, located medial to the biceps tendon.
  • Ends at the level of the neck of the radius by bifurcating into the radial and ulnar arteries.

Branches of the Brachial Artery

• Deep Brachial Artery (Profunda Brachii):
  • Course: Travels posteriorly in the radial groove of the humerus.
  • Supplies: Triceps brachii and other muscles of the posterior compartment of the arm.
• Superior Ulnar Collateral Artery:
  • Course: Runs along the medial side of the arm.
  • Supplies: Participates in the collateral circulation around the elbow.
• Inferior Ulnar Collateral Artery:
  • Course: Travels medially and anteriorly around the elbow.
  • Supplies: Participates in the collateral circulation around the elbow.
• Muscular Branches:
  • Course: Small branches that supply the muscles of the anterior compartment of the arm.
• Nutrient Artery:
  • Course: Supplies the humerus.

Functions of the Brachial Artery

• Oxygenated Blood Supply:
  • The primary function of the brachial artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the upper limb, particularly the arm, elbow, and forearm.

Clinical Relevance

• Brachial Artery Pulse:
  • The brachial artery pulse can be palpated in the cubital fossa, medial to the biceps tendon. It is commonly used to measure blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer.
• Brachial Artery Injury:
  • Injuries to the brachial artery can occur due to trauma, fractures, or penetrating injuries.
  • Symptoms: May include pain, swelling, decreased pulse, and ischaemia of the forearm and hand.
  • Treatment: Surgical repair or vascular reconstruction is often required.
• Compartment Syndrome:
  • Increased pressure within the arm's compartments can compromise blood flow from the brachial artery, leading to tissue ischaemia.
  • Symptoms: Severe pain, decreased pulse, and loss of function.
  • Treatment: Emergency fasciotomy to relieve pressure and restore blood flow.
• Embolism and Thrombosis:
  • Blockage of the brachial artery due to an embolus or thrombus can lead to acute limb ischaemia.
  • Symptoms: Sudden pain, pallor, pulselessness, and paralysis.
  • Treatment: Anticoagulation therapy, thrombolysis, or surgical intervention.

Summary

The brachial artery is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the upper limb. It originates from the axillary artery and travels down the arm, branching into the radial and ulnar arteries. It is essential for providing blood to the muscles and tissues of the arm, elbow, and forearm. Understanding the anatomy and clinical relevance of the brachial artery is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions such as injuries, compartment syndrome, and vascular blockages.