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[Anatomical variations of the brachial plexus]
N Ongoïba1, C Destrieux, A K Koumare
1Service de Chirurgie B, Hôpital National du Point G, BP 333, Bamako, Mali.
Morphologie : Bulletin De L'Association Des Anatomistes
|September 13, 2002
Summary
Anatomical variations in the brachial plexus are common, affecting nerve trunks and terminal branches. Understanding these variations is crucial for successful brachial plexus block anesthesia and surgical repair of nerve lesions.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Neuroscience
- Surgical Anatomy
Context:
- Brachial plexus variations can impact anesthetic procedures and surgical outcomes.
- Previous studies highlight the prevalence of anatomical anomalies in the brachial plexus.
Purpose:
- To investigate the anatomical variations of the brachial plexus and their relationships.
- To document the frequency and types of brachial plexus variations encountered during dissection.
Summary:
- Dissections of 23 brachial plexuses revealed significant variations in trunks (34.8%) and terminal branches (34.8%).
- Cervical nerve root C4 participation was observed in 30.4% of cases, lower than previously reported.
- Low origin of the musculocutaneous nerve was noted in 8.7% of variations.
Impact:
- Brachial plexus anatomical variations can lead to failures in loco-regional anesthesia.
- Surgeons must possess thorough knowledge of these variations for effective surgical treatment of brachial plexus injuries.