IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-12-23459 Original Research Paper To study the variations in the formation and branching pattern of brachial plexus in Rajasthan population. Sharma Dr. Shilpa Rani Dr. December 2019 8 12 01 02 ABSTRACT

Background: The brachial plexus has a complex anatomical structure since its origin in the neck throughout its course in the axillary region3. The knowledge of variations in the brachial plexus is helpful to redical neck dissections and other surgical operation of axilla and upper arm. Thus, the comprehension of variation in the formation and branching pattern of brachial plexus is key to anatomists, radiologists, surgeons, and the anaesthesiologists. So, the present study tries to explain variations of brachial plexus. Objective: To observe the different variation in the formation and branching pattern of brachial plexus and correlating them with surgical & clinical importance. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 50 brachial plexus (25 on right and 25 on left) in 25 embalmed human cadavers of unknown age from the department of anatomy of Mahatma Gandhi medical college, Jaipur. The Brachial Plexus was dissected in embalmed cadavers and exposed according to Cunnigham’s Manual of Practical Anatomy by the help of dissecting instruments (scalpel, scalpel blade, blunt scissors, pointed scissors, blunt forceps, and pointed forceps). Results: we have found the lower trunk is formed by the continuation of T1 spinal nerve in one cadaver; 3 out of 50 (6%) were found pre–fixed type of Brachial Plexus; Dorsal scapular nerve was originated from C4 spinal nerve bilaterally in one cadaver and unilaterally from left side in one cadaver and Communication of median and musculocutaneous nerve was found in 12% cases in right side & 8% cases in left side. Conclusion : In the present study an attempt has made to know the possible variations in the formation and branching pattern of the brachial plexus4. Though the variations mentioned in the present study may not alter the normal functioning of the limbs of individuals but the knowledge of variations is to be kept in mind by anatomists, radiologists, surgeons, neurologist, orthopedician and anaesthesiologist5.