Subclavian Loop

The subclavian loop (ansa subclavia, pna, bna, jna; synonym: Viessant loop) is an anatomical formation, which is a nerve plexus located in the neck.

The subclavian loop is formed by two roots of the spinal nerves - the accessory nerve (nn. accessorius) and the hypoglossal nerve (n. hypoglossus). The accessory nerve innervates the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles, and the hypoglossal nerve innervates the muscles of the tongue.

In the area of ​​the carotid triangle, these two nerves connect with each other, forming the subclavian loop. This connection allows the nerve fibers of the accessory nerve to join the hypoglossal nerve and participate in the innervation of the muscles of the tongue.

The subclavian loop has important clinical significance, since its damage can lead to disturbances in the motor and sensory innervation of the tongue.

The subclavian loop is a canal that is located between the thoracic and abdominal cavities and connects the shoulder to the chest. It consists of fatty tissue, ligaments and vessels that allow blood to flow into the patient's arm through the brachial artery. This is an important blood channel as it provides nutrition to the muscles and skin of the shoulder. The subclavian artery supplies blood to the shoulder, arm, hand, and finger, allowing blood to circulate to that part of the body.

The most common surgery involving the subclavian loop is thoracotomy, the removal of the diseased portion of the subclavian loop, which may be associated with other pulmonary procedures such as lobectomy