Medial pectoral nerve

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Medial Pectoral Nerve is a nerve that originates from the medial cord of the brachial plexus and supplies the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Medial Pectoral Nerve" is derived from the Latin words 'medius' meaning middle, 'pectoralis' meaning of the chest, and 'nervus' meaning nerve. Thus, the term literally translates to 'the nerve of the middle chest'.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Medial Pectoral Nerve arises from the medial cord of the brachial plexus and usually carries fibers from the eighth cervical and first thoracic spinal nerves (C8, T1). It passes behind the first part of the axillary artery and the lower part of the pectoralis minor muscle to reach the pectoralis major muscle.

Function[edit | edit source]

The Medial Pectoral Nerve supplies both the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles. It provides motor innervation to these muscles, enabling movements of the shoulder and chest.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the Medial Pectoral Nerve can result in weakness or paralysis of the pectoral muscles, affecting the movement of the shoulder and chest. This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or conditions such as brachial plexus neuropathy.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Medial pectoral nerve Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD