Vascular anatomy · USMLE Step 1

A stab wound at the left 2nd intercostal space near the sternal border risks injury to which major vessel?

  1. Aortic arch
  2. Left subclavian artery
  3. Pulmonary trunk
  4. Internal thoracic artery
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Correct answer: Internal thoracic artery

The left internal thoracic artery courses just lateral to the sternum and can be damaged in parasternal injuries. It is frequently harvested for coronary bypass grafting.

Difficulty: Medium Question 2 of 20

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