Three unique variations of the neurovascular course of the profunda brachii artery: a case report

Abstract

Purpose To report previously undocumented variants of the neurovascular course of the profunda brachii artery. Methods During routine cadaveric dissection, a unique combination of variations in the neurovascular course of the profunda brachii artery was noted in the right upper extremity of a 67-year-old female cadaver. Results The brachial artery was observed entirely anterior to the median nerve and its roots. The median nerve received an additional contribution from a branch of the lateral cord that communicates with the medial cord. The profunda brachii artery also took abnormal origin from the subscapular artery, rather than the brachial artery, in the same limb. Conclusion This report presents a unique combination of three neurovascular variations in the right upper limb of a single cadaver. Understanding variability in the course and continuation of the profunda brachii artery may assist surgeons and other interventionists in safely and effectively operating within the upper extremity.