Anomalous constitution of the brachioradialis muscle: a potential site of radial nerve entrapment.

The anatomical relationships of structures in the elbow region in the context of surgical approaches require to be studied carefully and diligently. The main aim of the present study is to report an accessory muscle in the elbow region which was detected during routine anatomical dissection and discuss its clinical importance. The muscle belly measured 4.8 x 2.1cm and it fused with the brachioradialis distally. Proximally, it was seen to blend with the deltoid and the brachialis muscles. The radial nerve was observed to interpose between this accessory muscle and the brachioradialis. This could act as a potential site of compression neuropathy. The present study seeks to elucidate the morphology and potential function of an additional muscle belly in relation to the brachioradialis muscle. A comprehensive knowledge of the anatomical characteristics of brachialis, brachioradialis and radial nerve should prove extremely helpful for the hand surgeons to considerably reduce the risk of injury during operative maneuvers.