Unilateral variation of branches of brachial plexus supplying anterior compartment of arm

Phalguni SRIMANI, Rudradev MEY

Abstract

Brachial plexus has been reported to show different variations which include its formation, course, branches and distribution patterns. One such variation was observed during routine dissection in the department of Anatomy, R.G. Kar Medical College, Kolkata showing unilateral (right) absence of musculocutaneous nerve, and branches from median nerve after supplying all the muscles of front of arm continued as lateral cutaneous nerve of forearm. The distribution of median nerve was found to be normal in forearm and palm. On left side, no variations was detected. Considering clinical importance, recognition and knowledge of such possible anatomical variation will be definitely helpful in the field of neurology, anesthesia and surgery.