A study of variable origins of arteries in arm

Abstract

A series of anomalous arterial supply of the arm and shoulder is presented. In these cases, the deep brachial artery arose from a common trunk with posterior circumflex humeral artery. In one case, the superior ulnar collateral artery and deep brachial artery originated from the posterior circumflex humeral artery. The common trunk or posterior circumflex humeral artery arose from the brachial artery at the level of the lower border of the teres major (at the origin of the brachial artery). A possible ontogenetic explanation is provided for this situation. Awareness of the variations of arteries of the arm or shoulder is important for angiographers and the surgeon who operates in this region. © 2007 Springer-Verlag.