AN ANATOMICAL STUDY OF VARIATIONS IN THE BRANCHING PATTERN OF AXILLARY ARTERY AND ITS CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Abstract

Introduction: Variation in the branching pattern of axillary artery is quite common. Accurate knowledge of the normal and variant arterial anatomy of the axillary artery is important for clinical procedures in axillary and pectoral region. The aim of this study is to find out the incidence and types of variation in the branching pattern of axillary artery. Materials and Methods: Dissection of axillary and pectoral region was done on both sides in 25 cadavers in the department of Anatomy, K.P.C. Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata to study the branching pattern of axillary artery. Results: Variation was present in 16% cases. Among these, 6% variation was present in the second part and 10% variation was present in the third part of axillary artery. Most common variation found was the origin of subscapular artery from the second part of axillary artery. Conclusion: Proper knowledge of variations of branching pattern of axillary artery is important for orthopaedic, reconstructive and vascular surgeons to avoid complications during various surgical procedures in axillary regions and angiographies.