Medial pectoral nerve

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

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

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

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

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

• Brachial Plexus
• Pectoralis Major
• Pectoralis Minor
• Medial Cord
• Axillary Artery

Medial pectoral nerve Resources
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