Axillopectoral muscle (Langer's muscle)

Turgut H., Peker T. V., Gulekon N., Anil A., Karakose M.

CLINICAL ANATOMY, vol.18, no.3, pp.220-223, 2005 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 18 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2005
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/ca.20077
  • Journal Name: CLINICAL ANATOMY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.220-223
  • Keywords: variation, axilla, upper arm, axillopectoral muscle, Langer's axillary arch, AXILLARY ARCH
  • Gazi University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

In a routine dissection of the axillary fossa, a muscle originating from the coracoid process of the scapula and extending to the long head of triceps brachii muscle was observed. The mentioned muscle was adhering to both the triceps brachii muscle and the tendinous part of the latissimus dorsi muscle. This anatomical variation is referred to as axillary arch (Langer's muscle or axillopectoral muscle). The muscle mass was measured 9.6 cm in length and 1.4 cm in width. The accessory muscle can be a reason of an axillary mass and can exert pressure on the neighboring neurovascular bundle or lymph routes; thus, exposing a wide range of symptoms. Therefore, variations of this area should be kept in mind in surgical interventions. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.