Lateral cord

Lateral cord is a part of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that originate from the spinal cord in the neck and control the muscles and sensation in the upper limbs. The lateral cord is formed by the anterior divisions of the upper (C5-C6) and middle (C7) trunks of the brachial plexus. It gives rise to three main nerves: the lateral pectoral nerve, the musculocutaneous nerve, and the median nerve.

Etymology

The term "lateral cord" is derived from its position in the brachial plexus. It is located on the lateral side of the plexus, with "lateral" meaning "to the side" in medical terminology.

Anatomy

The lateral cord is located in the upper chest and shoulder region. It is formed by the anterior divisions of the upper and middle trunks of the brachial plexus. The lateral cord gives rise to three main nerves:

• The lateral pectoral nerve, which innervates the pectoralis major muscle.
• The musculocutaneous nerve, which innervates the muscles in the front of the arm and provides sensation to the skin of the forearm.
• The median nerve, which is formed by the union of a branch from the lateral cord and a branch from the medial cord of the brachial plexus. The median nerve innervates most of the muscles in the forearm and some muscles in the hand.

Clinical significance

Damage to the lateral cord can result in weakness or paralysis of the muscles innervated by its branches, as well as loss of sensation in the areas of skin these nerves supply. This can occur as a result of trauma, such as a brachial plexus injury, or due to medical conditions that affect the nerves, such as neuropathy.

Related terms

• Brachial plexus
• Lateral pectoral nerve
• Musculocutaneous nerve
• Median nerve
• Medial cord
• Brachial plexus injury
• Neuropathy

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