Variations of the circumflex humeral arteries: a cadaveric study

Authors : Mohamed ELAJNAF, Abduelmenem ALASHKHAM

Pages : 171-176

View : 16 | Download : 13

Publication Date : 2020-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objectives: Surgery is the main treatment option of both anatomical and surgical neck humeral fractures, which could result in damage to the circumflex humeral vessels. Current research studies have found that vascular supply to the shoulder is variable. However, the incidence of these variations and how they can affect the blood supply to the shoulder region is still under investigation. The aim of this study is to identify possible variation patterns of the circumflex humeral vessels. Methods: A total of 10 shoulders insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(3 males, 2 females; average age of 68.8 years); were dissected in Anatomy, University of Edinburgh, under the regulation of the Human Tissue insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(Scotland); Act 2006. Each shoulder was dissected, and tissues were removed to identify the axillary artery and its branches. Results: The anterior and posterior circumflex humeral arteries were observed to arise as single branches from the 3rd part of the axillary artery in 70% insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(n=7); and 80% insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(n=8);, respectively. In one cadaver, the posterior circumflex humeral artery insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(PCHA); arose from the subscapular artery in one side insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(10%, n=1); and from the profunda brachii artery on the contralateral side insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(10%, n=1);. In the remaining 10% insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(n=1);, the anterior circumflex humeral artery insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(ACHA); was found as a branch from the PCHA, with the latter being a direct branch from the 3rd part of the axillary artery. Conclusion: Knowledge and awareness of these variations is essential to not only suspect, diagnose and treat possible complications of common fractures and dislocations in the region, but also to prevent iatrogenic injury.
Keywords : anatomical variation, axillary artery, circumflex humeral arteries, profunda brachii artery, quadrangular space