Anatomic characteristics and surgical implications of the superficial radial nerve.
BACKGROUND
Superficial radial nerve (SRN) that lies superficially on the radial side of the distalforearm and dorsum of the hand, can be injured by various procedures. Thus, precise knowledge in its variation is crucial.


OBJECTIVE
Since there were no such data in Thai population, provide the variation data of the SRN in Thai cadavers. This is likely to be more accurate when applied in Thailand.


METHODS
The authors studied the branching pattern and the course of SRN in 40 Thai cadavers.


RESULTS
The extra type, replacement of SR3 by a branch of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve, was found (4.7%) and the incidences of other patterns were different from those of previous reports. Moreover; asymmetry and gender difference were also demonstrated. The authors observed the higher frequencies of the SRN lying over the snuff box and first dorsal compartment of the wrist compared to other reports. The distances to important landmarks were measured and the presented data were comparable to those of other studies with no significant differences between sides or genders.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that the different variations of the SRN among various races should be concerned during the relevant procedures.
Huanmanop
Thanasil
T
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Agthong
Sithiporn
S
Luengchawapong
Krisada
K
Sasiwongpakdee
Thananed
T
Burapasomboon
Pattarin
P
Chentanez
Vilai
V
D002102:Cadaver; D005260:Female; D005542:Forearm / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011826:Radial Nerve / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D012016:Reference Values; D013785:Thailand