Influence of transverse cervical artery on brachial plexus:application anatomy

Abstract

Objective To investigate whether brachial pleuxs entrapment bytransverse cervical vessels exited or not and provide its treatment option. Methods Application anatomy study of transverse cervical artery at thoracic outlet was done on 62 sides of 31 adult embalmed cadavers and its relationship with brachial plexus was noted.Results No transverse superfical cervical artery was found in 13 cases of cadaver anatomy. 51 transverse superficial cervical artery were found on 49 sides with 11 close contact with the brachial plexus (21.15 %); No transverse profound cervical artery was found in 16 cases. 52 transverse profound cervical artery (dorsal scapular artery) were found in 46 sides with 31 close contact with the brachial plexus, and with 9 having remaint brachial plexus impression (17.31%). Conclusions Transverse cervical artery,especially transverse profound cervical artery (dorsal scapular artery)can entrap the brachial plexus. It is another one of factors resulting in thoracic outlet syndrome. Key words: Thoracic outlet syndrome; Brachialplexus; Anatomy,Regional; Transverse cervical artery; Dorsal scapular artery