Suprascapular Artery: Key Player in Shoulder and Chest Blood Supply
The suprascapular artery, a vital blood vessel, plays a significant role in the human body's circulatory system. Originating from the thyrocervical trunk, it traverses the phrenic nerve and scalenus anterior muscle before crossing the superior transverse ligament and entering the supraspinous fossa of the scapula.
The suprascapular artery, after entering the supraspinous fossa, moves laterally behind the scapula neck, passing through the great scapular notch, and finally enters the infraspinous fossa. This artery has two main branches: the suprasternal and acromial. The suprasternal branch supplies blood to the upper part of the chest and ends in the upper chest skin, while the acromial branch supplies blood to the skin covering the acromion of the scapula.
Before branching, the suprascapular artery crosses the subclavian artery and runs behind the clavicle, or collarbone.
The suprascapular artery's journey and branching pattern ensure adequate blood supply to various structures in the shoulder and chest region. Its path and function are well-documented in anatomical texts, with no specific physician or study mentioned regarding a connection to the infraspinous fossa.
