Which of the following nerves arises directly from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus?
- A Upper subscapular nerve ✓
- B Medial cutaneous nerve of forearm
- C Lateral pectoral nerve
- D Suprascapular nerve
Correct answer: A. Upper subscapular nerve
Explanation
Five branches arise from the posterior cord: the upper subscapular, lower subscapular, thoracodorsal, axillary and radial nerves. The lateral pectoral nerve comes from the lateral cord, the medial cutaneous nerve of forearm from the medial cord, and the suprascapular nerve from the upper trunk, proximal to any cord formation. Remembering the five posterior cord branches also explains the pattern of deficits in a posterior cord injury.
Reference: Snell's Clinical Anatomy by Regions, 10th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.