Variations of Biceps Brachii Muscle and its Clinical Importance

Abstract

Introduction: Biceps brachii is one of the functionally important muscles of front of the arm. As the name indicates biceps brachii is having two heads of origin and it inserts on the posterior surface of radial tuberosity. Variations may be present in the form of additional heads of origin or they may be present at its insertion. These variations may affect action of muscle and may cause compression of nearby neurovascular structures. Aim: To determine the variation in anatomy of biceps brachii with respect to its origin, insertion and its nerve supply. Materials and Methods: The present osteological study was conducted on 32 arms of embalmed cadavers (including both right and left) of Department of Anatomy, SRMS IMS, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India from 2015-2018 period. The dissection of arm was done according to standard guidelines and biceps brachii muscle was cleaned. The origin, insertion and nerve supply of biceps brachii muscle was observed and noted for any variation. Results: In the present study an additional head of origin of biceps on right and left side of two cadavers were found. In present study inferomedial origin of biceps brachii was found. The present study also showed the presence of musculotendinous slip at its insertion. This slip was going towards the muscle belly of pronator teres. Conclusion: There are numerous variations seen in biceps brachii which can put a surgeon in dilemma and it may result in iatrogenic injuries. Hence, it is important to have a knowledge about its variations so that such injuries can be prevented.