Infraclavicular Branches of the Brachial Plexus (MA)

Question 1

What is meant by infraclavicular?

Answer 1

The clavicle divides the brachial plexus into superior and inferior portion. The branches that arise from the inferior portion is called infraclavicular branches

Question 2

Where does the infraclavicular branches arise from?

Answer 2

They arise from cords of the brachial plexus and includes the terminal branches as well.

Question 3

What are the names of these branches and what do they innervate?

Answer 3

1. Lateral pectoral nerve:(arise from the lateral cord:C5,C6,C7)
2. Medial pectoral: nerve ( medial cord C8-T1)
3. Upper and lower subscapular nerves: ( arise from the posterior cord C5,C6)
4. Thoracodorsal nerve: (arise from posterior cord C6-C8)
5. Axillary nerve: (arise from terminal branches of the posterior cord C5-C6)