A DESCRIPTIVE ANATOMICAL STUDY ON THE VARIATION IN BRANCHING PATTERN OF THE BRACHIAL ARTERY IN CADAVERS AT A NEWLY ESTABLISHED TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL
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Keywords
Brachial artery, anatomical variations, cadaveric dissection, morphometric analysis, medical education
Abstract
The brachial artery exhibits considerable morphological variability in its branching pattern, with variations occurring in 10-25% of individuals globally. These anatomical variations have significant implications for vascular surgery, interventional radiology, and other clinical procedures. This descriptive study aimed to document the branching patterns of the brachial artery in cadavers available at a newly established medical college and evaluate their clinical significance.
Methods: A descriptive anatomical study was conducted at the Department of Anatomy, Autonomous State Medical College, Sonebhadra, from December 2024 to September 2025. Four adult human cadavers (8 upper limbs) available during the initial academic year were systematically dissected following standard anatomical techniques. The brachial artery branching patterns were documented with detailed morphometric measurements including arterial length, diameter at multiple levels, and distance of bifurcation from the intercondylar line.
Results: Among 8 upper limb specimens examined, 2 specimens (25%) demonstrated anatomical variations in brachial artery branching pattern. One specimen showed high bifurcation at the middle third of the arm (12.5%), and another displayed superficial brachial artery (12.5%). The remaining 6 specimens (75%) exhibited normal anatomical pattern. Detailed morphometric measurements and anatomical relationships were documented for all specimens.
Conclusion: This descriptive study documents brachial artery variations in the initial cadaveric collection of a newly established medical college. The findings contribute to anatomical documentation and emphasize the importance of recognizing vascular variations during dissection and clinical procedures.
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Dr. Anand Kumar
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Autonomous State Medical College, Sonebhadra, (U.P.)
Dr. Sunanda Saha
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Katihar Medical College, Katihar (Bihar)
Dr. Rajeev Kumar Kanchan
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Lord Buddha Koshi Medical College and Hospital, Saharsa, Bihar