Axillary artery

Definition

The axillary artery is a major blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood to the upper limb, located in the armpit (axilla) area, extending from the lateral edge of the first rib to the lower border of the teres major muscle. It is a continuation of the subclavian artery and becomes the brachial artery after passing the lower margin of teres major.

Related terms

Subclavian artery: A major artery that supplies blood to the thoracic region (chest), neck, and arms; it transitions into the axillary artery at the first rib.

Brachial artery: The continuation of the axillary artery beyond the lower margin of teres major; it runs down the arm and provides blood to it.

Teres Major Muscle: A muscle in the upper limb that helps in arm movement; it marks the lower limit where the axillary artery becomes the brachial artery