Supraclavicular nerves

Supraclavicular nerves are a group of nerves that originate from the cervical plexus, specifically from the third and fourth cervical nerves. They are responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin over the upper chest and shoulder.

Etymology

The term "supraclavicular" is derived from the Latin words "supra" meaning above and "clavicula" meaning little key, referring to the location of these nerves above the clavicle.

Anatomy

The supraclavicular nerves emerge from the lateral border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, cross over the sternoclavicular joint, and divide into medial, intermediate, and lateral branches. These branches provide sensory innervation to the skin over the upper chest and shoulder.

Medial Branch

The medial branch of the supraclavicular nerves, also known as the anterior supraclavicular nerves, innervates the skin over the anterior and middle parts of the deltoid muscle.

Intermediate Branch

The intermediate branch, also known as the middle supraclavicular nerves, innervates the skin over the lateral part of the pectoralis major muscle and the upper part of the deltoid.

Lateral Branch

The lateral branch, also known as the posterior supraclavicular nerves, innervates the skin over the lower part of the deltoid and the upper part of the latissimus dorsi muscle.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the supraclavicular nerves can result in sensory loss or paresthesia in the areas of the skin they innervate. This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or conditions such as brachial plexus injury.

See Also

• Cervical plexus
• Brachial plexus
• Nervous system

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