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Brachial plexus variations in human fetuses.

Ismihan Ilknur Uysal1, Muzaffer Seker, Ahmet Kağan Karabulut

  • 1Department of Anatomy, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey. iiuysal@yahoo.co.uk

Neurosurgery
|August 29, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Anatomical variations in the brachial plexus (BP) are common, with over half of fetuses showing differences. Understanding these BP variations is crucial for surgeons operating in the neck and shoulder areas.

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Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Embryology
  • Surgical Anatomy

Background:

  • The brachial plexus (BP) is a complex network of nerves crucial for upper limb function.
  • Anatomical variations in the BP can impact surgical procedures and neurological function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the frequency and types of anatomical variations in the human brachial plexus (BP) in fetal specimens.
  • To provide data that can aid surgeons in understanding potential deviations from the norm.

Main Methods:

  • Dissection of 200 brachial plexuses from human fetuses without malformations.
  • Documentation and photography of normal positions and morphological variations of the BP.

Main Results:

  • Over half (107/200) of the brachial plexuses exhibited variations.

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  • Variations were more common in female fetuses and on the right side.
  • Common variations included prefixed (25.5%) and postfixed (2.5%) plexuses, absent trunks (9% inferior, 1% superior), and variations in nerve root contributions (e.g., C4, T2).
  • Division variations were most frequent, followed by variations in terminal branches like the median, axillary, and musculocutaneous nerves.

    • Conclusions:

    • Anatomical knowledge of brachial plexus (BP) variations is essential for surgeons performing procedures in the cervical and axillary regions.
    • Awareness of these variations can help prevent iatrogenic injuries and improve surgical outcomes.