Blood vesselArtery

Right subclavian artery

Latin: Arteria subclavia dextra

Location: Shoulder

View the right subclavian artery in 3D

Course

Arises from the brachiocephalic trunk, arches over the right first rib past the scalene triangle, becoming the axillary artery.

Branches

Same five-part pattern as the left, including the right vertebral artery.

Clinical relevance

An aberrant right subclavian (arising distal on the arch and passing behind the oesophagus) causes dysphagia lusoria — a rare congenital explanation for swallowing trouble.

Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.