Anterior Circumflex Humeral Artery, Anterior View

Description

Positioned in an anterior perspective over the upper thorax and shoulder, the anterior circumflex humeral artery is traced as it leaves the third part of the axillary artery and courses laterally, deep to the coracobrachialis and short head of biceps brachii, toward the surgical neck of the humerus. The vessel wraps around the anterior aspect of the proximal humeral shaft, lying anterior and slightly inferior to the humeral head, before contributing to an anastomotic ring with the posterior circumflex humeral artery. Superficial veins of the deltopectoral region may be suggested through the semitransparent integument, giving surface context for the deeper arterial path. Anterior circumflex humeral anatomy matters most when you need to understand perfusion to the humeral head and the territory at risk in proximal humerus fractures and shoulder dislocations. Although the posterior circumflex humeral artery often provides the dominant inflow, disruption of the anterior circumflex humeral artery and its ascending (arcuate) branch has been implicated in avascular necrosis patterns after displaced surgical neck injuries and certain fixation constructs. This view also supports deltopectoral approach planning, where medial retraction around the bicipital groove region brings you near the anterior circumflex vessels and their branches. Use this asset in upper limb anatomy teaching to anchor the axillary artery branches, in orthopedic and sports medicine publications discussing proximal humerus trauma, and in procedural education for the deltopectoral approach or anterior shoulder exposure where vascular preservation affects humeral head viability. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.