Human Anatomy - Lab 5 Step 6

Laboratory 5. Axillary Region
Step 6. Parts of the Axillary Artery

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Examine the axillary artery which begins at the lateral border of the first rib as the continuation of the subclavian artery. It is divided into three parts based on its spacial relationship to pectoralis minor muscle. Retraction of the medial and lateral cords may be necessary to view the axillary artery.

Now, identify the parts of the axillary artery. They are the:

first part of the axillary artery lies between the lateral border of the first rib and the medial border of pectoralis minor muscle
second part of the axillary artery is posterior to the pectoralis minor muscle
third part of the axillary artery lies between the lateral border of the pectoralis minor muscle and inferior border of teres major muscle. As the axillary artery passes distal to the teres major muscle, its name changes to the brachial artery

Links and References:
Grant's 6.6, 6.22 -6.27;
Netter (1ed.): 402-405; (2ed.): 398-401;
Rohen/Yokochi 374-377, 384-391