Neurovasculature of the thoracic wall

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The thoracic wall is a musculoskeletal framework consisting of the rib cage, muscles, fascias and skin that enclose the thoracic cavity. It has a rich arterial supply via branches that arise from three main sources: the subclavian artery, axillary artery and the thoracic aorta. The veins of the thoracic wall initially follow a similar course to that of their arterial counterparts, however most of them terminate by draining into the azygos venous system. Lastly, the nervous supply to the thoracic wall mainly stems from the anterior rami of the spinal nerves T1-T12 (a.k.a. intercostal/subcostal nerves). Additional supply to the thoracic wall stems from the preterminal branches of the brachial plexus, such as the medial and lateral pectoral nerves.

Watch this video to get an overview of the main nerves of the thoracic wall.

Watch this video on the blood vessels of the thoracic wall.

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Take a closer look at the arteries, veins and nerves of the thoracic wall from an anterior perspective.

Now take a look at the vascular structures of the thoracic wall from a lateral view.

Summary