Two muscular variations in the elbow associated with the anterior interosseous nerve

Łukasz Olewnik1, Bartłomiej Szewczyk2, Nicol Zielinska2

  • 1Department of Anatomical Dissection and Donation, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland. lukasz.olewnik@umed.lodz.pl.

Insights

This case report details rare anatomical variations in a human forearm, including a dual-headed pronator teres and an accessory flexor pollicis longus head. These variations pose risks for neurovascular compression, particularly of the anterior interosseous nerve.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Morphology
  • Clinical Anatomy

Background:

  • Anatomical variations in the forearm musculature and neurovasculature are clinically significant.
  • Understanding these variations is crucial for surgical procedures and diagnosing entrapment syndromes.

Observation:

  • A rare variant of the pronator teres muscle with two distinct proximal attachments was observed.
  • An accessory head of the flexor pollicis longus muscle was identified, originating from the medial epicondyle.
  • A high division of the median nerve was also noted in conjunction with these variations.

Findings:

  • The dual-banded pronator teres may lead to ulnar artery compression.
  • The accessory flexor pollicis longus head, alongside the high median nerve division, creates a potential compression site for the anterior interosseous nerve.

Implications:

  • These anatomical anomalies highlight potential risks for anterior interosseous nerve syndrome and ulnar artery entrapment.
  • Awareness of such variations is essential for surgeons and clinicians to prevent iatrogenic injuries.
  • This case contributes to the understanding of forearm anatomical variability and its clinical relevance.

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