Circumflex Scapular Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The circumflex scapular artery is an artery of the upper back. It contributes to the blood supply of structures within the scapular region of the back. 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 circumflex scapular artery arises as a terminal branch of the subscapular artery within the axilla. It first travels posteriorly, curving around lateral border of the scapula. It passes through the triangular space to leave the axilla and enter the upper back region. Here, the circumflex scapular artery gives rise to two cutaneous branches: Horizontal branch – supplies an area of skin overlying the spine of the scapula. Descending branch – supplies an area of skin overlying the lateral border of the scapula. Within the infraspinous fossa of the scapula, the circumflex scapula terminates by dividing into two branches, which anastomose with the suprascapular artery superiorly and dorsal scapular artery inferiorly. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Origin of the circumflex scapular artery from the subscapular axis. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The circumflex scapular artery anastomoses with the suprascapular and dorsal scapular arteries. Supply The circumflex scapular artery contributes to the blood supply of the following structures: Scapula Subcutaneous tissue and skin overlying the scapula. Teres major and minor Deltoid Long head of triceps brachii By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 3The deltoid and teres major Frequent questions What is the circumflex scapular artery? The circumflex scapular artery is a terminal branch of the subscapular artery that supplies blood to the scapular region of the upper back. It plays a crucial role in delivering oxygenated blood to various muscles and tissues around the scapula. What structures receive blood supply from the circumflex scapular artery? The circumflex scapular artery supplies blood to the scapula, subcutaneous tissue, and skin overlying the scapula, as well as the teres major and minor muscles, the deltoid muscle, and the long head of the triceps brachii. This extensive supply is vital for the function and health of these structures. How does the circumflex scapular artery course through the body? The circumflex scapular artery travels posteriorly, curving around the lateral border of the scapula after arising from the subscapular artery in the axilla. It passes through the triangular space to enter the upper back region. What are the branches of the circumflex scapular artery? The circumflex scapular artery gives rise to two main cutaneous branches: the horizontal branch, which supplies skin over the spine of the scapula, and the descending branch, which supplies skin over the lateral border of the scapula. These branches enhance the vascular supply to the skin in these areas. What is the significance of the anastomosis involving the circumflex scapular artery? The circumflex scapular artery terminates by dividing into two branches that anastomose with the suprascapular artery and the dorsal scapular artery. This anastomosis ensures a robust blood supply to the scapula and surrounding muscles, which is crucial for maintaining their function and integrity. Rate This Article