Anatomical Variations of the Brachial Plexus in Human Cadavers and Their Clinical Implications: A Descriptive Observational Cadaveric Study.

Dr. M. Ranadheer  Reddy; S. Viswa  Santhi; P. Ruth  Heleena

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2533

Authors

Dr. M. Ranadheer Reddy Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Dr. S. Viswa Santhi Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Dr. P. Ruth Heleena Tutor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2533

Keywords:

Brachial plexus, anatomical variation, cadaver, median nerve, musculocutaneous nerve, clinical anatomy

Abstract

Background:

The brachial plexus is the principal neural network of the upper limb and demonstrates considerable anatomical variability. These deviations are clinically important because they can alter the interpretation of neurological deficits, complicate surgical exposure, and influence the success of regional anesthesia.

Objectives:

To document the anatomical variations of the brachial plexus in human cadavers and to assess their potential clinical implications.

Methods:

This observational cadaveric study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, ASRAMS, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India, from January 2024 to December 2025. Thirty brachial plexuses were dissected and examined for variations in trunk formation, median nerve formation, and communications involving the musculocutaneous nerve. Findings were recorded systematically and expressed as frequencies and percentages.

Results:

The classical anatomical pattern was observed in 19 specimens, whereas 11 showed variations. Variations in trunk formation were the commonest finding, followed by altered median nerve formation and communications between the musculocutaneous and median nerves. The median nerve showed normal two-root formation in most specimens, while additional roots were identified in a small proportion. The musculocutaneous nerve followed the usual course in the majority, but communicating branches with the median nerve were noted in a few specimens.

Conclusion:

Anatomical variations of the brachial plexus were present in more than one-third of the examined specimens. Variations were particularly frequent in the trunk pattern and median nerve configuration, underscoring the need for detailed anatomical knowledge during surgical, anesthetic, and diagnostic procedures involving the neck, axilla, and upper limb.

Recommendations:

Routine awareness of possible brachial plexus variations should be emphasized in anatomy teaching, preoperative planning, microsurgical procedures, and peripheral nerve block training. Larger multicentric cadaveric and imaging-based studies are recommended to refine anatomical mapping and improve clinical safety.

Author Biographies

Dr. M. Ranadheer Reddy, Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.

is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy at Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India. He is actively involved in undergraduate medical teaching, anatomical dissection training, and academic activities in anatomy. His areas of professional interest include gross anatomy, embryology, histology, and medical education. He has contributed to departmental teaching programs and supports research-oriented learning among medical students.
Dr. S. Viswa Santhi, Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.

is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy at Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India. She has experience in teaching anatomy to medical undergraduates and is involved in academic, practical, and departmental training activities. Her academic interests include anatomical sciences, histology, embryology, and clinical correlation of anatomy. She continues to contribute to medical education and student-centered academic development.
Dr. P. Ruth Heleena, Tutor, Department of Anatomy, Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India.

is a Tutor in the Department of Anatomy at Alluri Sitaram Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India. She is involved in undergraduate teaching, practical demonstrations, and departmental academic activities. Her areas of interest include gross anatomy, histology, embryology, and anatomy-based medical education. She actively supports student learning through practical teaching and academic guidance.

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