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Variant Heads of Biceps Brachii muscle


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Category
Articles
Publisher
Radiance Research Academy
Publishing Date
01-Oct-2012
volume
4
Issue
20
Pages
170-176

Aim: To study the occurrence of the variant heads of biceps brachii muscle. Materials and Methods: The 50 specimens of the 25 donated embalmed cadavers (20 males & 5 females) were dissected and observed for variations in the origin and insertion of biceps brachii muscle bilaterally in the department of Anatomy at K.J.Somaiya Medical College, Sion, Mumbai, INDIA. The dissection of arm and forearm was done meticulously in all the 50 specimens. The photographs of the supernumerary head of biceps brachii muscle were taken for proper documentation and for ready reference. Results / Observations: Out of 50 specimens, the supernumerary head was found in six specimens. The humeral head was taking origin from the anteromedial surface of the shaft of the humerus in three specimens and from the anterolateral surface of the shaft of the humerus in three specimens. In all six specimens, the supernumerary head joined with the other two heads and form a common tendon which got inserted into the radial tuberosity of the radius and bicipital aponeurosis. In the present study the incidence of supernumerary head of biceps brachii was 12%. In all the six specimens, the supernumerary head was found unilaterally (5 males & 1female specimen). In three specimens (50%) the supernumerary head was supplied by median nerve, the musculocutaneous nerve was absent in that specimen while in all other specimens the muscles of front of arm were supplied as usual by musculocutaneous nerve. The blood supply of the supernumerary head was from the brachial artery and vein. There were no variations in the vascular pattern of arm and forearm in all the specimens. Conclusion: Topographical anatomy and variations in the heads of the biceps brachii muscle is clinically important for surgeons, orthopaedicians and radiologists.