The word "brachial artery" is spelled as [ˈbreɪkiəl ˈɑːtəri]. The first syllable "bra" is pronounced as [breɪ], with a long "a" sound. The "ch" in "brachial" is pronounced as [k], and is followed by an "i" sound. The stress on "brachial" falls on the second syllable. The second part of the word, "artery," has a long "a" sound in the first syllable and is pronounced as [ˈɑːtəri]. The brachial artery is a major blood vessel in the upper arm.
The brachial artery is a major blood vessel of the upper arm that supplies oxygenated blood to the muscles and tissues in the region. It is a continuation of the axillary artery, which originates from the subclavian artery in the region of the shoulder.
The brachial artery courses down the arm, along the inner aspect of the upper arm, and terminates just below the elbow where it divides into the radial and ulnar arteries. Along its pathway, the artery provides a vital conduit for blood flow to the surrounding structures.
It is a relatively large and superficial artery, making it easily accessible for clinical examination and commonly used for measuring blood pressure. The pulse of the brachial artery is routinely palpated in the antecubital fossa to determine blood pressure readings.
The brachial artery is responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscles of the upper arm. It also plays a role in regulating blood flow and pressure, as well as maintaining homeostasis. Any disruption to the brachial artery's normal structure or function can result in impaired blood flow to the arm, which may lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.
In summary, the brachial artery is a major blood vessel of the upper arm that supplies the region with oxygenated blood, plays a vital role in blood pressure measurement, and is essential for the proper functioning of the muscles and tissues of the upper arm.
The word "brachial" comes from the Latin word "brachium", which means "arm". The term "brachial artery" comes from the fact that this artery is located in the arm.