Variant formation of the median nerve with its applied importance

Abstract

Introduction: A detailed knowledge of variations in the formation of the median nerve is crucial for anatomists, surgeons, anaesthesiologists, radiologists, and other medical professionals, particularly when performing clinical investigations or surgical interventions involving the axilla and upper limb. Given the frequency of these variations, this study aims to investigate the anatomical variations of the median nerve with respect to its formation.
Materials and Methods: A total of 38 human cadavers of either sex comprising of perinates and adults were included in the present study. After removing the appropriate structures, the median nerve carefully dissected out and observed.
Results: In 2.27% and 4.55% of specimens, median nerve formed from two roots and three roots from the lateral cord respectively. And in 2.27% of all specimens, median nerve formed from two roots from the medial cord. With reference to the third part of axillary artery, 2.27% and 2.63% of specimens, there were higher and lower formation of the median nerve respectively.
Discussion: The present study confirmed that many variations in the formation of median nerve do exist. This knowledge will be of great help to explain a particular pattern of paralysis in the event of such a nerve being damaged. It may also explain affection of surrounding blood vessels.