Lab 1 Module 3: Posterior Triangle of the Neck - Page 5 of 5

CASE REPORT Conclusion:

When performing a complete axillary lymph node dissection there are several nerves that are more at risk than the other nerves of the region.

The Long Thoracic Nerve which arises from C5, C6, C7 cervical ventral rami passes posterior to the trunks of the brachial plexus and lies on the superficial side of the serratus anterior muscle (part of the medial wall of the axilla). This nerve also innervates the serratus anterior. This nerve was previously identified. Find it on the cadaver.

If the long thoracic nerve is injured, what would happen to the scapula?

The Thoracodorsal Nerve branches directly off of the posterior cord of the brachial plexus, descends along the posterior wall of the axilla, and innervates the large latissimus dorsi muscle. The latissimus dorsi muscle is a powerful adductor, extender, and medial rotator of the arm at the glenohumeral joint, therefore, injury to the thoracodorsal nerve will result in significant weakness of those motions. This nerve was previously identified. Find it on the cadaver.

The Intercostal Brachial Nerve is a branch of the second intercostal nerve. It leaves the thoracic wall, spans the axilla to reach the medial side of the arm where it joins with the medial brachial cutaneous nerve to provide cutaneous sensory innervation. Injury to this nerve during the operative. Procedure can lead to persistent postoperative pain or numbness in the region. (This nerve is not visable on this cadaver).