Scapular anastomosis ------------------------------------ The pectoral girdle has a rich plexus of arterial vessels that anastomose around the scapula and its muscles known as the scapular anastomosis. It functions to allow blood to flow around the scapula and shoulder joint if there is injury or occlusion. Contributing branches arise from as proximal as the first part of the subclavian arterial to as distal as the third part of the axillary artery. The branches that contribute include: --------