Where does the internal thoracic artery originate?

It arises from the first part of the subclavian artery on its lower surface, approximately 2.5 cm above the medial end of the clavicle.

What are the terminal branches of the internal thoracic artery?

In the 6th intercostal space, it divides into two terminal branches: the superior epigastric artery and the musculophrenic artery.

What are the main branches of the internal thoracic artery?

Its branches include the pericardiophrenic artery, mediastinal branches, anterior intercostal arteries, perforating branches, superior epigastric artery, and musculophrenic artery.

Why is the internal thoracic artery important in cardiac surgery?

It is commonly used in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to bypass blocked coronary arteries, preferred for its longevity and resistance to atherosclerosis.

What structures lie anterior to the internal thoracic artery?

Anterior relations include the medial end of the clavicle, internal jugular vein, brachiocephalic vein, phrenic nerve, pectoralis major, and the upper six costal cartilages.

What is the venous drainage associated with the internal thoracic artery?

It is accompanied by two venae comitantes that unite at the 3rd costal cartilage to form the internal thoracic vein, which drains into the brachiocephalic vein.

Internal Thoracic Artery – Branches & CABG Use