Coexistence of bilateral Langer’s arm arch and Kaplan’s anastomosis: a case report and literature review

Axel O. Colombo,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina ,Sofia Funes,Agustina Medin,Tomás Ferré,Juan M. De Zan,Mariana Bendersky,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina ,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina ,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina ,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina ,Living Anatomy Laboratory, 3Rd Normal Anatomy Department, School Of Medicine, University Of Buenos Aires, Argentina; Enys (National Scientific And Technical Research Council - Conicet)

doi:10.52083/etth6352

Abstract

The axillopectoral muscle [Langer’s arm arch (LAA)], is described as a supernumerary musculo-tendino-fascial structure, which connects at least two muscles that make up the walls of the axillary fossa. This anatomical variant is found in around 7% and 15% of the population, usually unilaterally, on the right side and in females. Kaplan described a nervous communication between the dorsal and the terminal superficial branches of the ulnar nerve, both sensory, with an incidence of the 2% to 4%. A case report is presented of an anatomical preparation, in which Langer’s arm arch and Kaplan anastomosis coexisted on both sides. A review of literature of LAA and Kaplan’s anastomosis is also presented. The knowledge of these anatomical variations is important as they are involved in a wide variety of vascular, nervous and functional disorders of the upper limb.

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