The daily educational pearl – Injury of the musculocutaneous nerve

Injury of the musculocutaneous nerve

This is a rare injury that can occur secondary to:

– shoulder dislocation

– penetrating trauma of the axilla or the arm

– impingement of the upper brachial plexus (heavy backpacks)

 

Signs:

– decreased sensation radial aspect of the forearm

– decreased elbow flexion