Thoracodorsal Nerve

Description

Anatomic illustration of the thoracodorsal nerve

This subscapularis muscle drawing shows the upper and lower subscapular nerves originating from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus

Name

• Thoracodorsal Nerve
• Middle subscapular nerve
• Long subscapular nerve

Anatomic Course

• Originates from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus in the axilla
• Lies between the upper/lower subscapular nerves
• Descends the posterior wall of the axilla before passing anterior to the artery
• Then the neurovascular bundle crosses the inferior border of teres minor
• Here it pierces the latissimus

Motor Innervation

• Latissimus Dorsi

Sensory Innervations

• None

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Clinical Significance

• Can be used for transplant
• Thoracodorsal Nerve Injury

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See Also

• Nerve Anatomy Main
• Shoulder Pain Main
• Physical Exam Shoulder

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