Related Experiment Videos
The dorsoscapular nerve in traumatic brachial plexus lesions
M J Malessy1, R T Thomeer, E Marani
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Leiden, The Netherlands.
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|January 1, 1993
Summary
The levator scapulae and rhomboid muscles are innervated by specific nerves from C3-C5. Testing rhomboid muscle function is crucial for assessing brachial plexus injuries.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Neurology
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- The innervation of the levator scapulae and rhomboid muscles is essential for shoulder function.
- Understanding this innervation is critical for diagnosing and treating brachial plexus injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the precise origin and course of nerves supplying the levator scapulae and rhomboid muscles.
- To evaluate the clinical significance of these muscles in patients with brachial plexus lesions.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical dissection of four human cadavers to trace nerve pathways.
- Clinical assessment of 137 patients with traumatic brachial plexus injuries, noting muscle function.
Main Results:
- Levator scapulae muscles receive segmental nerves from C3 and C4.
- Rhomboid muscles receive segmental nerves from C4 and C5.
- Paresis of these muscles occurred in 13 out of 137 patients with brachial plexus lesions.
Conclusions:
- The rhomboid muscle can maintain function with innervation solely from C4.
- Rhomboid muscle testing is a valuable component in the assessment of brachial plexus lesions.