Arteria profunda brachii, also known as the deep brachial artery or deep artery of the arm, is a major blood vessel located in the upper extremity of the body. It is a branch of the brachial artery, which itself arises from the axillary artery in the armpit. The arteria profunda brachii is responsible for supplying blood to various structures in the arm region, including the muscles and bones.
This artery runs alongside the radial nerve, a major nerve in the arm, for a significant portion of its course. It travels posteriorly, or towards the back, through the upper arm, reaching the posterior compartment of the arm, where it branches off further into smaller arteries.
The primary role of the arteria profunda brachii is to deliver oxygenated blood to the muscles of the posterior compartment of the arm. These muscles include the triceps brachii, the primary extensor of the elbow joint, as well as other smaller muscles involved in arm movements.
In cases of injury or disease affecting the deep brachial artery, a disruption in the blood supply to the muscles in the arm may occur. This can lead to various symptoms, such as muscle weakness, pain, or impaired movement. Proper identification and management of such conditions are essential to preserve the normal functioning and health of the arm.
