Subclavian Artery (Full)

arteria subclavia

The subclavian artery supplies the upper limb, the posterior brain via the vertebral artery, and the anterior chest wall via the internal thoracic artery. Its compression between the anterior scalene and the first rib produces arterial thoracic outlet syndrome with upper limb ischaemia. The LIMA (left internal mammary artery) from the left subclavian is the gold standard coronary bypass conduit with 95% patency at 10 years.

Region: Chest

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Left: aortic arch directly. Right: brachiocephalic trunk

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Subclavian steal syndrome from proximal subclavian occlusion proximal to the vertebral artery origin reverses vertebral artery flow to supply the arm — retrograde vertebrobasilar flow produces posterior circulation symptoms (vertigo, diplopia, syncope) with upper limb exercise. Subclavian angioplasty and stenting restores anterograde vertebral flow and relieves symptoms.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Subclavian Steal Syndrome

Proximal subclavian occlusion reversing vertebral artery flow producing posterior circulation symptoms with arm exercise managed with subclavian angioplasty.