Left subclavian artery

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Description:

The left subclavian artery is the third arterial branch of the aortic arch. It arises from the arch and ascends through the mediastinum to the level of the first rib where it bends over the top of the rib and passes laterally behind the anterior scalene muscle. It terminates where it crosses the first rib to become the axillary artery. The subclavian artery gives rise to numerous branches that supply the head, neck, thorax, and shoulder region.