Anatomical Details
On the right side the subclavian artery arises from the brachiocephalic (innominate) artery behind the right sternoclavicular articulation; on the left side it springs from the arch of the aorta. The two vessels, therefore, in the first part of their course, differ in length, direction, and relation with neighboring structures.
In order to facilitate the description, each subclavian artery is divided into three parts:
- The first portion extends from the origin of the vessel to the medial border of the Scalenus anterior.
- The second lies behind this muscle.
- The third extends from the lateral margin of the muscle to the outer border of the first rib, where it becomes the axillary artery.
The first portions of the two vessels require separate descriptions; the second and third parts of the two arteries are practically alike.
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