Variations in Coracobrachialis Muscle of Arm – A Study in Adult Human Cadavers

Abstract

Introduction: Anomalies of muscles of arm have been frequently reported in literature. These are important with regard to surgical approaches and orthopaedic procedures. Coracobrachialis, a muscle of the anterior compartment of arm, also exhibits numerous variations that can pose challenges during radiological diagnosis and surgeries of upper arm and hence requires evaluation regarding these variations and their incidence.

Objectives: This study aims to document and evaluate the variations of coracobrachialis muscle of arm along with its nerve supply in human cadavers and discuss its clinical and phylogenetic significance.

Methods: The study was conducted on 60 upper limbs belonging to 28 male and 2 female adult human cadavers using standard dissection methods and variations of coracobrachialis muscle and its nerve supply were specifically looked for.

Results: Two limbs showed variation in origin and 20 limbs in insertion of the coracobrachialis muscle and these variations were examined and reported in detail. Nerve supply of the muscle also showed variations in eight limbs which was further evaluated in detail.

Conclusion: Variations of coracobrachialis muscle do occur, especially in its insertion, and their knowledge is essential as these can confuse surgeons/orthopaedicians during surgeries and pose challenges in evaluating CT and MRI scans of the arm.