Brachiocephalic artery (innominate artery) (Truncus brachiocephalicus)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The first and largest branch of the aortic arch, ascending obliquely anterior to the trachea to the right sternoclavicular joint where it bifurcates into right common carotid and subclavian arteries.
Clinical notes
Erosion by a tracheostomy tube cuff can trigger a catastrophic tracheoinnominate fistula; crucially evaluated in Type A aortic dissection extensions.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Brachiocephalic artery (innominate artery)?
The first and largest branch of the aortic arch, ascending obliquely anterior to the trachea to the right sternoclavicular joint where it bifurcates into right common carotid and subclavian arteries.
Why is the Brachiocephalic artery (innominate artery) clinically important?
Erosion by a tracheostomy tube cuff can trigger a catastrophic tracheoinnominate fistula; crucially evaluated in Type A aortic dissection extensions.
Source & license
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