Axilla Anatomy Overview

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the clavipectoral fascia in the axilla?

To protect the subclavius muscle from injury

To provide a pathway for neurovascular structures

To support the shoulder joint

To connect the clavicle to the axillary floor (correct)

Which structure passes directly through the pectoralis minor muscle?

Lateral thoracic artery

Thoraco-acromial artery

Cephalic vein

Medial pectoral nerve (correct)

Which of the following structures does NOT pass between the subclavius and pectoralis minor muscles?

Lateral pectoral nerve

Cephalic vein

Thoraco-acromial artery

Lateral thoracic artery (correct)

Which muscle is directly enclosed by the clavipectoral fascia?

Subclavius Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the thoraco-acromial artery in the axilla?

To provide branches to the upper limb muscles Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the axilla in relation to the upper limb?

To serve as a pathway between the neck and the arm. Signup and view all the answers

Which bone contributes to the medial margin of the axillary inlet?

Rib I Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a wall of the axilla?

Inferior wall Signup and view all the answers

Which nerve is associated with the axilla and primarily innervates the deltoid and teres minor muscles?

Axillary nerve Signup and view all the answers

What type of anatomical structure does the axilla represent?

An irregular pyramidal space Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following muscles is NOT typically associated with the axilla?

Sternocleidomastoid Signup and view all the answers

Which structure marks the base of the axilla?

Pectoralis major Signup and view all the answers

What forms the posterior margin of the axillary inlet?

Superior border of the scapula Signup and view all the answers

Which major vessels and nerves pass from the neck to the axilla?

Subclavian artery, Axillary vein, Trunks of the brachial plexus Signup and view all the answers

What structures form the floor of the axilla?

Fascia and skin Signup and view all the answers

Which muscles contribute to the anterior axillary fold?

Pectoralis major muscle Signup and view all the answers

Which muscles contribute to the posterior axillary fold?

Teres major and latissimus dorsi muscles Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the axillary inlet in relation to the axilla?

It allows for the passage of major vessels and nerves Signup and view all the answers

Which components are included in the anterior wall of the axilla?

Pectoralis major muscle and subclavius muscle Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the axillary inlet?

It serves as a passageway for structures entering the axilla Signup and view all the answers

How is the floor of the axilla defined in terms of its structure?

It is formed by connective tissues and skin Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Axilla Anatomy

The axilla is a pyramidal space located between the neck and the arm.
Apex: The apex is formed by the lateral border of rib I, the posterior surface of the clavicle, and the superior border of the scapula.
Base: The base is formed by skin and fascia, extending between the anterior and posterior axillary folds. The anterior axillary fold is formed by the lower margin of the pectoralis major muscle. The posterior axillary fold is formed by the teres major and latissimus dorsi muscles.
Walls: The walls of the axilla are:
- Anterior wall: Skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia, pectoralis major muscle, pectoralis minor muscle, subclavius muscle.
- Posterior wall: Skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia, subscapularis muscle, teres major muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle.
- Medial wall: Skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia, serratus anterior muscle.
- Lateral wall: Skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia, humerus.

Contents of the Axilla

The axilla contains major vessels and nerves:
- Subclavian artery: Supplies the upper limb.
- Axillary vein: Drains the upper limb.
- Trunks of the brachial plexus: Provide motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb.
The axilla also contains lymph nodes and fat.

Clavipectoral Fascia

The clavipectoral fascia is a thick sheet of connective tissue that connects the clavicle to the floor of the axilla. It encloses the subclavius and pectoralis minor muscles and fills the gap between them.
Structures that pass through the clavipectoral fascia:
- Cephalic vein
- Thoraco-acromial artery
- Lateral pectoral nerve
Structures that leave the axilla through the clavipectoral fascia:
- Lateral thoracic artery passes inferior to the pectoralis minor muscle.
- Medial pectoral nerve penetrates directly through the pectoralis minor muscle.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the anatomy of the axilla, detailing its structure including the apex, base, and walls. Understand the key muscles and fascia involved in this crucial anatomical space between the neck and arm.