Editorial Commentary: Shoulder Anatomy, Finding the Axillary Nerve: Measure Twice, Cut Once

Most descriptions of shoulder anatomy note that the axillary nerve lies approximately 5 cm below the anterolateral corner of the acromion, and the nerve has been reported to range from 2 to 7 cm from the acromial edge, depending on the patient and measuring technique. The safe trans-deltoid operable area has been described as up to 4 cm below the acromion. A useful clinical guide I use is that the inferior extent of the subacromial bursa ends above the axillary nerve.