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Angiosomes of the brachial plexus: an anatomical study
Sidney M Levy1, G Ian Taylor, Jacques Baudet
1Jack Brockhoff Plastic Surgery Research Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|December 10, 2003
Summary
This study reveals rich vascular networks within the brachial plexus (BP), detailing nutrient vessel entry points and variations. Understanding these neurovascular relationships is key for surgical planning and treating BP injuries.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
- Neuroanatomy
Background:
- The brachial plexus (BP) is crucial for upper limb function.
- Detailed understanding of its vascular supply is limited.
- Neurovascular relationships are vital for surgical interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the neurovascular relationships of the brachial plexus.
- To document the vascular anatomical features and supply patterns.
- To identify nutrient vessel entry points and variations within the BP.
Main Methods:
- Examination of ten fresh cadaveric brachial plexuses.
- Injection of the arterial system with lead oxide/gelatin.
- Analysis using radiography, microdissection, light microscopy, and photography.
Main Results:
- Four distinct angiosomes identified, based on major arteries.
- Nutrient vessels penetrate nerve trunks at branching points, often with Y-shaped entry.
- Rich vascular supply with anastomotic connections within nerve trunks observed.
- Significant variation in vascular supply noted, linked to subclavian artery anatomy.
Conclusions:
- The brachial plexus possesses a rich intrinsic vascular supply.
- Nutrient vessels within the BP demonstrate specific branching patterns.
- Variations in vascular anatomy, particularly from the subclavian artery, influence BP supply.