The subclavian nerve is a branch of the upper trunk of the brachial plexus.

It contains axons derived from the ventral rami of the C5 and C6 cervical spinal nerves.

[2] Descending, it passes anterior to (the 3rd part of) the subclavian artery and vein.

[3] The accessory phrenic nerve may rather branch from the C4 or C6 segments or ansa cervicalis.

[5] The subclavian nerve innervates the subclavius muscle.