A new type of the coracobrachialis muscle

Abstract

The coracobrachialis muscle belongs to the anterior group of the brachial region. Its main functions are flexion and adduction at the glenohumeral joint. It is highly morphologically variable, especially in the number of bellies, place of origin or insertion, and its relationship to the musculocutaneous nerve. Accessory structures associated with the coracobrachialis muscle include the coracobrachialis brevis or coracobrachialis longus muscle. The present case describes a three-headed coracobrachialis muscle with two such additional structures. One of these has a tendinous origin connected to the periosteum and located on the surgical neck of the humerus. Its insertion is fused with the third head of the coracobrachialis muscle. The other has a proximal attachment fused with the capsule of the shoulder joint, and its distal attachment is fused with the third head of the coracobrachialis muscle in place of its connection with the short head of the biceps brachii. This could result in better stabilisation of the glenohumeral joint; on the other hand, it could limit operational access during treatment of subscapularis tears