subclavian artery

Subclavian Artery

Origin

- on right arises from brachiocephalic trunk behind right sternoclavicular joint

- on left arises from the arch of the aorta

Ends

- outer border first rib as axillary artery

First part

- origin of artery to medial aspect scalenus anterior

- on right arches above the clavicle / lies on the pleura / RLN wraps about it

Mechanism

Usually a direct blow 

- less commonly a fall on the outstretched hand

RTA / sporting accidents commonest causes

Can be pathological as a result of radionecrosis

- eg following radiotherapy for breast cancer.  

Incidence

Fractures of the clavicle are common