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The first part of the left subclavian artery originates in the superior mediastinum as the third branch of the arch of the aorta at the level of T3/T4 intervertebral disc. It passes superiorly and slightly laterally to lie deep to the left sternoclavicular joint. During this course its relations are:
From the level of the left sternocostal joint it curves more sharply and continues laterally to its termination at the medial border of scalenus anterior. During this course, its relations are similar to those of the first part of the right subclavian artery.
The first part of the left subclavian artery gives off three branches, from proximal to distal:
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