Lateral Thoracic Artery, Anterior View

Description

Arising from the axillary artery near the lateral border of pectoralis minor, the lateral thoracic artery descends on the lateral thoracic wall, running inferiorly along the superficial surface of serratus anterior and paralleling the midaxillary line. Portions of the clavicle, scapula, and the proximal humerus frame the shoulder girdle superiorly, while multiple ribs define the thoracic cage deep to the vessel. Nearby red and blue channels indicate companion arterial branches and venous drainage in the axilla and intercostal spaces, with a pale blue structure suggesting an adjacent nerve or lymphatic pathway. Orientation stays strictly anterior, so the artery’s relationship to the pectoral region and lateral chest is immediately legible. For breast and axillary surgery, this artery is a frequent source of bleeding and a consistent landmark when working along the serratus anterior plane. It also helps explain collateral pathways in axillary artery occlusion, via anastomoses with the thoracoacromial, subscapular, and intercostal arterial systems, and its perforators matter in lateral chest wall and breast reconstruction planning. Small vessel. Big consequences. Use this artwork in gross anatomy and surgical anatomy teaching to clarify the transition from axillary to thoracic wall blood supply, or in atlases and operative texts covering axillary dissection, mastectomy approaches, and flap design where the lateral thoracic artery and its accompanying veins must be anticipated and controlled. It also supports radiology and ultrasound teaching when tracing axillary branches in the pectoral region and along the serratus anterior. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.