Anterior Circumflex Humeral Artery - Podcast Version TeachMeAnatomy 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The anterior circumflex humeral artery is an artery of the shoulder region. It is a branch of the axillary artery. It contributes to the blood supply of the shoulder joint and its associated muscles. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The anterior circumflex humeral artery originates from the lateral aspect of the third part of the axillary artery. It is notably smaller in size than the posterior circumflex artery. After its origin, the anterior circumflex humeral artery passes underneath the coracobrachialis and short head of the biceps brachii. It then wraps around the anterior aspect of the humeral neck. At the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus, it gives rise to an ascending branch which supplies the head of the humerus. It terminates by anastomosing with the posterior circumflex artery. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1- The course of the anterior circumflex humeral artery Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas The axillary artery and its branches. The pectoralis muscles have been divided and reflected back. The axillary artery and its branches. The pectoralis muscles have been divided and reflected back. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Supply The anterior circumflex humeral artery contributes to the supply of the: Glenohumeral joint Head of the humerus Surrounding musculature – teres major, teres minor, deltoid, coracobrachialis Frequent questions What is the anterior circumflex humeral artery? The anterior circumflex humeral artery is a branch of the axillary artery that supplies blood to the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles. It plays a crucial role in the vascularisation of the glenohumeral joint and the head of the humerus. What muscles does the anterior circumflex humeral artery supply? The anterior circumflex humeral artery supplies several muscles, including the teres major, teres minor, deltoid, and coracobrachialis. This vascular supply is essential for the function and movement of the shoulder region. Where does the anterior circumflex humeral artery originate? The anterior circumflex humeral artery originates from the lateral aspect of the third part of the axillary artery. It is smaller than the posterior circumflex artery and courses beneath the coracobrachialis and short head of the biceps brachii. How does the anterior circumflex humeral artery contribute to shoulder joint vascularisation? The anterior circumflex humeral artery contributes to the vascularisation of the shoulder joint by supplying blood to the glenohumeral joint and the head of the humerus. It also forms anastomoses with the posterior circumflex artery, enhancing blood flow in the area. What is the course of the anterior circumflex humeral artery? The anterior circumflex humeral artery travels around the anterior aspect of the humeral neck after its origin. It gives rise to an ascending branch at the intertubercular sulcus that supplies the head of the humerus before terminating by anastomosing with the posterior circumflex artery. Rate This Article