The Coexistence of the Superficial Brachial Artery With the Common Origin of the Posterior Circumflex Humeral Artery and the Deep Brachial Artery

The brachial artery (ΒΑ) represents the axillary artery’s extension as it distally progresses to the teres major muscle or beneath the tendon of the latissimus dorsi muscle. Throughout its course, the BA maintains continuous proximity to the median nerve. Occasionally, an artery located in front of the arm muscles may exhibit a slightly more lateral position than the BA, following a convoluted path, referred to as the superficial brachial artery (SBA). SBA variants are not uncommon and can impact neural structures as well. In the course of routine dissection on a formalin-embalmed donated cadaver through the Body Donation Program, the following notable findings were identified: a) a BA bilateral trifurcation, below the tendon of the latissimus dorsi muscle; b) a posterior circumflex humeral artery of low origin (brachial artery); c) the coexistence of an SBA with the main BA; d) a subscapular artery of high origin (second part of the axillary artery); e) an anterior circumflex humeral artery duplication. These BA variants, particularly those related to the SBA, hold significance in upper limb surgery and everyday clinical practice. In such cases, meticulous surgical dissection is crucial to prevent arterial injury, and in complex situations, preoperative imaging might be advisable. Additionally, it's important to note that concurrent neural variants may also be present, potentially complicating the surgical approach.