Abstract
Background. Descriptive evaluation of nerve variations plays a pivotal role in the usefulness of clinical or surgical practice, as an anatomical variation often sets a risk of nerve palsy syndrome. Ulnar nerve (UN) is one amongst the major nerves involved in neuropathy. In the present anatomical study, variations related to ulnar nerve have been identified and its potential clinical implications discussed. Materials and Method. We examined 50 upper limb dissected specimens for possible ulnar nerve variations. Careful observation for any aberrant formation and/or communication in relation to UN has been carried out. Results. Four out of 50 limbs (8%) presented with variations related to ulnar nerve. Amongst them, in two cases abnormal communication with neighboring nerve was identified and variation in the formation of UN was noted in remaining two limbs. Conclusion. An unusual relation of UN with its neighboring nerves, thus muscles, and its aberrant formation might jeopardize the normal sensori-motor behavior. Knowledge about anatomical variations of the UN is therefore important for the clinicians in understanding the severity of ulnar nerve neuropathy related complications.
Highlights
Ulnar nerve (UN) is the major branch of the medial cord of brachial plexus, given off in the axilla
The dissection was further continued towards the anterior compartment of the arm in order to probe any communications of ulnar nerve with neighboring peripheral nerves at high humeral level
We observed a total of 4 ulnar nerve variations out of 50 upper limbs
Summary
Ulnar nerve (UN) is the major branch of the medial cord of brachial plexus, given off in the axilla. It consists of fibers of ventral rami of C8 and T1 spinal nerves. An anomalous pattern could be appreciated in the division of trunks and formation of the cords of brachial plexus No such aberrations usually could be noticed in the subsequent arrangement of their terminal branches [2]. Anomalous formations of UN and its unusual communications with neighboring nerves at axilla or at high humeral level are to be noted as it may present a complicating factor during surgical attempts to cause a nerve blockade [3]. Knowledge about anatomical variations of the UN is important for the clinicians in understanding the severity of ulnar nerve neuropathy related complications
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