Lateral Dorsal Cutaneous Branch of Fourth Posterior Intercostal Artery (Right)
Ramus cutaneus dorsalis lateralis arteriae intercostalis posterioris quartae
Read moreQuick Facts
Origin: Dorsal branches of posterior intercostal arteries.
Course: Posteriorly, accompanying the lateral branches of the posterior rami of corresponding thoracic nerves.
Branches: None.
Supplied Structures: Posterolateral aspect of the thorax.
Related parts of the anatomy
Origin
The lateral and medial dorsal cutaneous branches arise from the dorsal branches of posterior intercostal arteries, as it bifurcates when it passes through the costotransverse foramen (the space between the superior transverse ligament and the neck of the rib).
Course
The lateral dorsal cutaneous branches follow the lateral branches of the posterior rami of the corresponding thoracic nerves. They travel between the superior costotransverse and intertransverse ligaments (or muscle when present), and between the longissimus and iliocostalis muscles, piercing the latissimus dorsi to become superficial.
Branches
There are no named branches.
Supplied Structures
Along their course, the lateral dorsal cutaneous branches of the posterior intercostal arteries supply the longissimus thoracis, iliocostalis, and latissimus dorsi muscles, as well as the overlying fascia and skin.
