Abstract

Background: Radial nerve is the continuation of the posterior cord of the brachial plexus in the Axilla. It is the nerve of extensor compartment of upper limb. Objectives: To know the course, and variations of radial nerve in the axilla, lower triangular space and posterior compartment of the arm Methods : Dissection was done on 44 upper limbs from embalmed cadavers and 6 upper limbs from embalmed dead fetuses in the Department of Anatomy, J J M Medical College, Davangere. Dissection of Radial nerve and its branches in the axilla and posterior compartment of the arm was carried out according to Cunningham’s manual of practical anatomy. Results : In the present study, out of 50 specimens, Radial nerve(RN) originated from the posterior cord of brachial plexus at axilla, lies posterior to third part of axillary artery, descends behind the proximal part of brachial artery , passes through lower triangular space(LTS) and radial groove and accompanies the profunda brachii artery in 50 specimens(100%). 22 specimens (44%) showed high division of Radial nerve(RN) in to two divisions at axilla and lower triangular space (LTS). The relation between two high divisions of Radial nerve( RND) was anterior & posterior or medial & lateral .In all cases (100%), either anterior or lateral division continues as radial nerve in to anterior compartment of arm. Interpretation &Conclusion :The present study is important for Surgeons, Orthopedicians, and Neurophysicians as it provides the knowledge of course of radial nerve in axilla and posterior compartment of arm to prevent possible complications.

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