Blood Vessels & Lymphatics of the Upper Limb

Overview

The vascular and lymphatic systems of the upper limb ensure efficient supply, drainage and immune defence. This section outlines the major arteries, veins and lymphatic channels that support upper limb function.

Key Structures

Topics include the axillary, brachial, radial and ulnar arteries, their venous counterparts, and the superficial and deep venous systems. The organisation of lymphatic drainage and associated nodes is also described.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

A sound knowledge of vascular and lymphatic anatomy is vital for procedures such as venepuncture, grafting and arterial line placement. Learners can relate this anatomy to clinical conditions including embolism, compartment syndrome and lymphoedema.

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An anatomical illustration of the axillary artery divided into first, second, and third parts relative to the pectoralis minor, with the subclavian and brachial arteries and teres major also labeled.

Arterial Supply

Venous Drainage

Diagram illustrating the five groups of axillary lymphatic nodes, highlighting their drainage into the apical nodes.

Lymphatic Drainage

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Illustration of a lateral abdominal wall showing the internal oblique muscle and rectus sheath, with ribs visible superiorly.
Encyclopaedia

Internal Oblique

by Aren Mnatzakanian

Illustration of the anterior thigh muscles, color-coded with a legend identifying psoas major, iliacus, rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, sartorius, and pectineus.
Encyclopaedia

Rectus Femoris

by Roxanne Salkeld

Superior view of the pelvic floor with emphasis on the prerectal fibers of the puborectalis muscle.
Encyclopaedia

Puborectalis

by Aren Mnatzakanian