lateral cutaneous branch (anatomy)

Last reviewed 01/2018

The lateral cutaneous branch of the intercostal arteries forms laterally in each intercostal space on each side of the thorax. It receives an arterial supply from both anterior and posterior intercostal muscles. From the plane intermediate to the innermost and internal intercostal muscles, it provides peforating branches which pass superfically and deeply to supply the:

• deep parietal pleura
• periphery of the diaphragm: particularly the lower five intercostal pairs
• tissues of the lateral intercostal space e.g. intercostal muscles
• superficial skin