Lateral Pectoral Nerve

Description

Arising from the lateral cord of the brachial plexus (classically C5 to C7), the lateral pectoral nerve courses anterior to the axillary artery and vein, then turns medially across the upper axilla toward the deep surface of pectoralis major. Superficial landmarks include the clavicle and anterior ribs bordering the sternum, with the humerus and scapula framing the shoulder girdle laterally and posteriorly. Fine terminal branches are shown entering the pectoral musculature near the pectoral fascia, in close proximity to the thoracoacromial vessels. Clear contrast. Clinically, this anterior approach is the one you want when teaching the nerve supply of the pectoral region and when planning dissection around the deltopectoral groove and clavipectoral fascia. The lateral pectoral nerve is at risk during breast and axillary surgery (for example, mastectomy with axillary node dissection) and can be encountered during pectoralis major tendon repair or placement of subpectoral implants, where traction or transection may contribute to anterior axillary fold weakness. Its relationship to the cords of the brachial plexus also makes it a useful waypoint when tracking patterns of upper trunk or lateral cord injury. Ideal for gross anatomy lab guides, board-style teaching slides on brachial plexus branches, and surgical anatomy figures for breast, plastic, and sports medicine texts that need a clean depiction of nerve entry into pectoralis major against the bony thorax and shoulder girdle. Also suitable for patient-facing diagrams when explaining postoperative numbness or pectoral weakness after axillary procedures. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.