Introduction of a Variation in Latissimus Dorsi Muscle (the Axillary Arch of Langer)

Abstract


Introduction: The most common variation of the axillary components in human is the Langer’s axillary arch (axillopectoral muscle). For the first time, Ramsay in 1795 explained this variation, and in 1864, Langer confirmed this and called it as axillary arch of Langer.

Case Presentation: During routine dissection, we encountered an aberrant slip of muscle and fascia expanded from latissimus dorsi to pectoralis major.

Conclusions: The axillary arch variation is very clinically important, because it may entrap and implicate the neurovascular bundle. Also it is important for surgeons during operation, so they need to be aware of possible presence of such variations.