Albany Medical College Virtual Anatomy Lab

Lab2 - Module 2 - Anatomy of the Scapular Region: Page 3 of 7

Collateral Circulation of the Scapula

Posterior art
Posterior art
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Anterior arter
Anterior arter
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An anastomosis is a natural communication between two or more vessels. In regard to an arterial anastomosis it creates collateral circulation which enables blood to flow to or from a tissue when the principle vessel involved is obstructed. There is an elaborate anastomosis around the scapula and glenohumeral joint that provides a connection between the subclavian, axillary, and brachial arteries.

Begin with the right Scapula and Humerus.
Add the Subclavian artery.
Add the Suprascapular artery. Which is a branch of the Subclavian artery.
Add the Axillary artery.
Add the Circumflex Scapular artery. Which is a branch of the Axillary artery.
Add the Dorsal Scapular artery. Which is a branch of the Subclavian artery.
Add the Acromial Branch of the Thoracoacromial artery.
Add the Brachial artery.
Add the Posterior Circumflex Humeral artery. Which is a branch of the Axillary or Brachial artery
The identified branches of the right Subclavian artery are now fully visable. Use the Highlight Tool to test your knowledge of the arterial vessels around the Scapula