A rare variation of the branching pattern of radial nerve

Jamuna M

Abstract

Variation in the branching pattern of posterior cord of the brachial plexus is common but variation in the branching pattern of the radial nerve is rare. A rare and unreported variation in the branching pattern of the radial nerve was noted in the left sided axilla of an embalmed adult male cadaver during the regular gross anatomical dissection for undergraduate students. The radial nerve was having its origin from the posterior cord as a terminal branch and it split into anterior and posterior divisions. Branches of the radial nerve in the arm were given off from the posterior division and the anterior division continued as the main radial nerve with normal course and relations. These variations are important in evaluating post-traumatic injuries and repair of peripheral nerve injuries and during flap dissections.