Anterior Circumflex Humeral Artery, Anterior View

Description

Arising from the third part of the axillary artery, the anterior circumflex humeral artery courses laterally and anteriorly across the proximal humerus, hugging the surgical neck deep to the deltoid and closely related to the tendon of the long head of biceps in the intertubercular sulcus. From an anterior perspective, the vessel can be appreciated as it winds toward the lateral aspect of the humerus, where it contributes to the periarticular arterial ring with the posterior circumflex humeral artery. Nearby bony landmarks include the clavicle, ribs, scapula, and humeral head. Small caliber branches and accompanying veins form a superficial network over the shoulder girdle. Clinical relevance centers on fractures at the surgical neck and operative work around the proximal humerus. Displacement here can endanger the circumflex humeral vessels, and compromised flow to the humeral head becomes a practical concern in complex fractures and dislocations, alongside injury to the axillary nerve that travels with the posterior circumflex humeral artery through the quadrangular space. An anterior view also maps cleanly onto the deltopectoral approach used for open reduction internal fixation and shoulder arthroplasty, where careful handling of the anterior circumflex humeral artery and its ascending branch supports capsular and humeral head perfusion. A small vessel, but a reliable landmark. Use this artwork in gross anatomy teaching on the axilla and proximal arm, in orthopedic and sports medicine texts covering proximal humerus fractures and shoulder arthroplasty approaches, and in surgical education modules that correlate surface intervals with deep vascular anatomy of the shoulder. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.