Case report: Variation in the formation of cords of brachial plexus and its relation with axillary artery

Brachial plexus is a complex structure, variations in formation of roots, trunks, divisions and cords are common. The aim of present study is to contribute to existing knowledge of the variations in the Anatomy of Brachial plexus , explaining its morphological and clinical significance. This case was reported during routine dissection of a 65 -year-old embalmed male cadaver conducted for undergraduate medical students. Dissection of the neck, pectoral region, axilla and arm was performed in the right upper limb. Observation was done on branches of cords below the clavicle, cords, trunks of brachial plexus, axillary artery and relation of cords to it. Two trunks were observed as Upper and Lower Trunk. Upper trunk was formed by union of C5& C6 roots. C7, C8 & T1 united to form Lower trunk .Middle trunk was absent. The lateral and medial cord fused to form superior cord. Posterior cord continued as inferior cord. This variation could have potential clinical implications while performing axillary surgery. Unusual relationship of axillary artery with cords fail the nerve block of infraclavicular part of brachial plexus.