Related Experiment Videos
Axillopectoral muscle (Langer's muscle)
Hasan Basri Turgut1, Tuncay Peker, Nadir Gülekon
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. hturgut@gazi.edu.tr
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.)
|March 16, 2005
Summary
An anatomical variation, the axillary arch (Langer's muscle), was found during a routine dissection. This accessory muscle can cause axillary masses and affect nearby nerves and lymphatics.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- Anatomical variations in the axillary fossa can impact surgical procedures.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- A rare anatomical variation, the axillary arch (also known as Langer's muscle or axillopectoral muscle), was identified.
- This accessory muscle originated from the coracoid process of the scapula and inserted into the long head of the triceps brachii.
Findings:
- The observed axillary arch measured 9.6 cm in length and 1.4 cm in width.
- It adhered to the triceps brachii and the latissimus dorsi muscle.
Implications:
- Axillary arch can present as an axillary mass, mimicking other pathologies.
- Compression of neurovascular bundles or lymphatic routes by this muscle can lead to diverse clinical symptoms.
- Awareness of this anatomical variation is essential for surgeons operating in the axillary region.