Which vessel is considered the main artery supplying the upper extremity?

The brachial artery is the main artery supplying the upper extremity, playing a crucial role in delivering oxygenated blood to the arm and hand. It branches from the axillary artery at the lower border of the teres major muscle and runs down the arm, giving rise to the radial and ulnar arteries at the elbow, which further supply blood to the forearm and hand.

Understanding the anatomy is essential; the brachial artery is significant because it is the primary conduit for blood flow in the upper limb, with its branches ensuring adequate perfusion to the distal structures. Its clinical importance is underscored in various medical scenarios, such as during blood pressure measurements or in cases involving trauma to the arm.

The radial vein, carotid artery, and facial vein do not serve as the main source of blood supply to the upper extremity. The radial vein is a part of the venous system that drains blood from the forearm, the carotid artery supplies blood to the head and neck, and the facial vein drains the face. Thus, they do not fulfill the role of a main artery for the upper extremity like the brachial artery does.