Posterior Circumflex Humeral Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The posterior 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 posterior circumflex humeral artery arises from the lateral aspect of the third part of the axillary artery. It originates just posterior to the anterior circumflex humeral artery, at the inferior border of the subscapularis muscle. From here, the artery passes posteriorly through the quadrangular space, accompanied by the axillary nerve, and wraps around the surgical neck of the humerus. A descending branch arises during its course, travelling distally to anastomose with the ascending deltoid branch of the deep brachial artery. The posterior circumflex humeral artery then terminates by anastomosing with the anterior circumflex humeral artery. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1The posterior 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 posterior circumflex humeral artery contributes to the supply of the: Glenohumeral joint Head of the humerus Surrounding musculature – teres major, teres minor, deltoid, long head of the triceps brachii By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Contents of the quadrangular space; the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery. Frequent questions What is the posterior circumflex humeral artery? The posterior 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 maintaining the vascularisation of the shoulder region. Where does the posterior circumflex humeral artery originate? This artery arises from the lateral side of the third part of the axillary artery, just behind the anterior circumflex humeral artery, at the inferior border of the subscapularis muscle. Its precise origin is essential for understanding shoulder vascular anatomy. What structures does the posterior circumflex humeral artery supply? The artery supplies the glenohumeral joint, the head of the humerus, and several muscles including the teres major, teres minor, deltoid, and the long head of the triceps brachii. This vascular contribution is vital for muscle function and joint stability. How does the posterior circumflex humeral artery course through the shoulder? It travels posteriorly through the quadrangular space alongside the axillary nerve and wraps around the surgical neck of the humerus. This pathway is important for its role in shoulder circulation and nerve proximity. What is the significance of the anastomoses involving the posterior circumflex humeral artery? The artery forms anastomoses with both the ascending deltoid branch of the deep brachial artery and the anterior circumflex humeral artery. These connections enhance collateral blood flow, which is crucial during shoulder movements and potential vascular occlusions. Rate This Article