Variations in the Nerve Supply to the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis

Abstract

Introduction: An area of variability has been noted in the origin of the nerve to extensor carpi radialis brevis, with previous studies attesting variably that it arises more commonly from the radial, deep radial or the superficial radial nerve. This study was undertaken to confirm or refute our impression that the superficial radial nerve is purely a sensory nerve as has been often reported in literature. Methods: The nerve supply to Extensor carpi radialis brevis was studied in 60 adult cadaveric upper extremities. Results: In only 50% of the limbs, this branch had the usual origin from deep branch of radial nerve. In the remaining 50% limbs, it arose from the angle of bifurcation of radial nerve in 20% and from the superficial branch of radial nerve in 30%. However, there was no corelation between the site of division of radial nerve and the source of nerve to this muscle. Conclusions: The present data emphasizes that the nerve supply to extensor carpi radialis brevis from superficial branch of radial nerve is not a rare occurrence, but that it holds a significant variability which is worth considering while planning for surgeries.

Keywords

• extensor carpi radialis brevis
• superficial radial nerve
• nerve variation