Medial cord

The Medial Cord is a key component of the brachial plexus, a network of nerve fibers that run from the spine, through the neck, and into the armpit. It is responsible for supplying nerves to the anterior (front) part of the arm.

Anatomy

The Medial Cord is formed from the anterior divisions of the lower two trunks of the brachial plexus, specifically the eighth cervical (C8) and first thoracic (T1) nerve roots. It is located medial to the Axillary artery and vein.

Branches

The Medial Cord gives rise to several important nerves, including:

• Medial pectoral nerve: This nerve innervates the pectoralis minor and pectoralis major muscles, which are involved in movements of the shoulder and upper arm.
• Medial cutaneous nerve of the arm: This nerve provides sensation to the medial (inner) part of the upper arm.
• Medial cutaneous nerve of the forearm: This nerve provides sensation to the medial part of the forearm.
• Ulnar nerve: This nerve provides motor and sensory innervation to the hand, and is particularly important for movements of the fingers.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Medial Cord can result in a variety of symptoms, depending on which branches are affected. These can include weakness or paralysis of the muscles innervated by the affected nerves, as well as sensory loss in the areas of skin supplied by these nerves.

See also

• Brachial plexus
• Ulnar nerve
• Medial cutaneous nerve of the arm
• Medial cutaneous nerve of the forearm
• Medial pectoral nerve

• 
  Medial cord
• 
  Medial cord
• 
  Medial cord