Editorial Commentary: Shoulder Anatomy, Finding the Axillary Nerve: Measure Twice, Cut Once

Arthroscopy. 2018 Mar;34(3):804-805. doi: 10.1016/j.arthro.2017.09.039.

Abstract

Most descriptions of shoulder anatomy note that the axillary nerve lies approximately 5 cm below the anterolateral corner of the acromion, and the nerve has been reported to range from 2 to 7 cm from the acromial edge, depending on the patient and measuring technique. The safe trans-deltoid operable area has been described as up to 4 cm below the acromion. A useful clinical guide I use is that the inferior extent of the subacromial bursa ends above the axillary nerve.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Acromion
  • Brachial Plexus / anatomy & histology
  • Cadaver*
  • Humans
  • Humerus
  • Shoulder Joint
  • Shoulder*