Thoracodorsal Artery, Posterior View

Description

Running in the posterior axillary region, the thoracodorsal artery descends along the deep surface and lateral border of latissimus dorsi, typically traveling with the thoracodorsal nerve toward the muscle’s broad inferomedial expanse. Superficially, trapezius spans the upper back from the midline to the scapular spine, while deltoid caps the shoulder laterally and infraspinatus occupies the infraspinous fossa, tapering toward the humerus with teres major forming a thick band along the inferior lateral scapular border. Scapular contours and the paraspinal midline serve as fixed landmarks, with superficial veins traced in blue over the muscular planes and tendinous attachments rendered in white. Orientation is clear. Left and right structures are presented symmetrically. Posterior depiction of the thoracodorsal pedicle matters because it is the workhorse vascular supply for the latissimus dorsi flap, and this angle clarifies its relationship to the posterior axillary fold where surgeons often enter the plane between latissimus dorsi and serratus anterior to identify and preserve the pedicle. Injury or spasm of the accompanying thoracodorsal nerve during axillary lymph node dissection can denervate the muscle, and a reliable mental map of the vessel’s course helps reduce traction and cautery injury when mobilizing the latissimus or controlling bleeding in the axilla. Pedicle length and branching pattern also influence flap rotation arcs and inset options in breast and chest wall reconstruction. Ideal uses include plastic and reconstructive surgery texts illustrating latissimus dorsi flap harvest, anatomy curricula covering the axillary artery branches and posterior scapulothoracic musculature, and operative teaching files for mastectomy with axillary clearance or posterior thoracic incisions. It also supports exam prep that ties surface anatomy of the back to the thoracodorsal neurovascular bundle and posterior shoulder mechanics. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.