A Case Report on Brachial Plexus Anomaly, Embryological Basis, and Clinical Implications

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Embryology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Presents prosection findings of a 74-year-old male anatomical donor.
• Donor had a complex medical history including severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiac issues, and other comorbidities.

Observation:

• Detailed examination of the upper extremities revealed significant anomalies in the brachial plexus, particularly on the left side.
• The observed brachial plexus anatomy deviated from the typical structure, lacking lateral cord convergence and showing anomalous superior trunk convergence.

Findings:

• Identified unique variations in brachial plexus formation, including the absence of a lateral cord and an atypical convergence into the superior trunk.
• These findings highlight the spectrum of human anatomical variability in the brachial plexus.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the necessity of a collaborative approach between surgeons and anesthesiologists, informed by a deep understanding of anatomical variations.
• Underscores the clinical relevance of recognizing such anomalies for optimizing patient care and procedural success.
• Contributes to the broader knowledge base of anatomical variations and their impact on medical practice.