The blood supply of the breast is provided by several arteries, including:
Internal mammary artery: This artery originates from the subclavian artery and supplies blood to the medial aspect of the breast.
Lateral thoracic artery: This artery arises from the axillary artery and supplies blood to the lateral aspect of the breast.
Thoracoacromial artery: This artery also arises from the axillary artery and supplies blood to the upper and outer quadrant of the breast.
Intercostal arteries: These arteries originate from the thoracic aorta and supply blood to the breast through the intercostal spaces.
The venous drainage of the breast is provided by several veins, including:
Axillary vein: This vein receives blood from the lateral aspect of the breast and drains into the subclavian vein.
Internal mammary vein: This vein receives blood from the medial aspect of the breast and drains into the brachiocephalic vein.
Intercostal veins: These veins drain into the azygos and hemiazygos veins.
The lymphatic drainage of the breast is also important and occurs through several lymph nodes, including:
Axillary lymph nodes: These are the most important lymph nodes for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. They are located in the axilla and receive lymphatic drainage from the breast.
Internal mammary lymph nodes: These lymph nodes are located along the internal mammary artery and receive lymphatic drainage from the medial aspect of the breast.
Supraclavicular lymph nodes: These lymph nodes are located above the clavicle and receive lymphatic drainage from the upper and outer quadrant of the breast.
Overall, the blood supply and lymphatic drainage of the breast are important for maintaining its health and function, as well as for diagnosing and treating breast cancer.