Clinical anatomy : official journal of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists & the British Association of Clinical Anatomists
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Since the definition of supraclavicular nerve entrapment syndrome by Gelberman et al. (Gelberman et al. [1975] J. Bone Joint Surg. Am. 57:119) a number of clinical cases of this specific entrapment neuropathy have been reported. ⋯ Considering the fact that the existence of a narrow site with rigid walls along the course of a nerve is essential for the development of an entrapment neuropathy, our study examines all the variant anatomical structures with a possible role in supraclavicular nerve entrapment. We describe three groups of anatomical structures with close relation to the course of the supraclavicular nerves-transclavicular canals, fibrous bands, and unusual muscular structures. Based on the characteristics of the variations found, for the first time, we suggest that in addition to the bony canals through the clavicle certain fibrous and muscular structures could also be an anatomical basis for supraclavicular nerve entrapment syndrome.
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Spina bifida occulta of the sacrum is the most common type of spinal deformity. Many authors have published data on the frequency of spina bifida occulta, with varying results. Some possible reasons for this variability could include the differing methods used to gather data and differing ways of classifying the condition. ⋯ The most common condition (43%) recorded was where S4 and S5 only were open. Eighteen cadavers (34%) showed only S5 open, and interestingly, no sacra were recorded as having the dorsal sacral arch completely closed. A study of a larger sample will follow using the validated X-ray technique.
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The variations in formation, location, and courses of the cords of brachial plexus and the median nerve were studied in both axillae of 172 cadavers. The total prevalence of variation was 12.8% (CI, 7.6-17.4) and it was found in 13.2% (CI, 7.5-18) of male and in 10.7% (CI, -0.6-19.6) of female cadavers. These variations were divided into three groups. ⋯ This study indicates that all three cords and median nerve vary considerably in levels of origin, location and course in relation to the axillary artery and these variable cases were joined with the communicating branch/branches. The observed variations are of anatomical and clinical interest. These kinds of variations are more prone to injury in radical neck dissection and in other surgical operation of the axilla.
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During modified radical mastectomy or cosmetic surgery, denervation of the lower part of the pectoralis major frequently occurs and may reduce muscle spasm, with consequent better reconstruction of the breast. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the pectoral nerves and the pectoral muscles. Eight unembalmed female cadavers were dissected and vascular and radiologic studies performed. ⋯ In pattern B (44%), associated with costal attachments wider than 6.6 cm, the nerve divided before entering pectoralis minor and its branches passed through the muscle or round its lower border to reach pectoralis major. The most medial branch of the medial pectoral nerve directed to the pectoralis major muscle emerged from pectoralis minor at the third intercostal space in the midclavicular line, a mean of 10.3 cm lateral to the margin of the sternum. Knowledge of the relationship between the extent of the costal attachment of pectoralis minor and the two patterns of branching of the medial pectoral nerve may be useful when performing elective denervation of the major pectoralis muscle.
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Mathematical relation between metatarsals and between phalanges in terms of their lengths and widths in themselves is considered to be significant with respect to its functional and aesthetic roles. The objective of this study is to conduct measurements for determining lengths and widths of metatarsals and phalanges on the foot radiographs and to determine possible mathematical correlations between metatarsals themselves and between phalanges themselves in terms of their lengths and widths. Anteroposterior right and left foot radiographs were taken from 100 volunteers (50 men and 50 women). ⋯ The results were evaluated by Regression statistical test, and the relation between metatarsals and between phalanges in terms of their lengths and widths was studied. As a result of the measurements, we found fixed proportions between metatarsals in themselves and between phalanges in themselves in terms of their lengths and widths. Knowing these morphometric relations may be useful for performing any surgical procedures designed to manage any defects or imperfections of the foot, chief among them is shortness.