Revisited anatomy of additional heads of biceps brachii muscle and coexisting musculocutaneous nerve variants

Abstract :

Introduction: Incidence of additional heads of biceps achii varies in different populations and its existence may influence the course of musculocutaneous nerve leading to variations. This study was proposed to observe this additional muscle and the associated nerve variations, in the Indian population. Material & methods: Hundred upper limbs from 50 formalin embalmed cadavers were dissected.Results: The additional heads were found in 10 cadavers (20%). Biceps achii muscle with three heads was seen in 12 limbs and with four heads was seen in one. In 13 limbs with additional muscle, nine (69.2%) were from left side. Concurrent musculocutaneous nerve variations were present in five limbs (38.5%). Conclusion: Presence of additional head in biceps achii is not uncommon in the Indian population, and is mostly seen on the left side. Presence of extra head is likely to simulate the soft tissue tumors and muscle tears, and should be considered during the analysis of the diagnostic scans.

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