Variations in the origin of the third head of biceps brachii in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh: A cross-sectional cadaveric study.
Background The biceps brachii muscle is classically described as having two heads: long and short. However, anatomical variations such as a third (accessory) head are not uncommon and may have clinical implications during surgical, orthopedic, or radiological procedures involving the arm. This stud...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Student's Journal of Health Research
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Student's Journal of Health Research Africa |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://sjhresearchafrica.org/index.php/public-html/article/view/1917/1564 |
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| Summary: | Background
The biceps brachii muscle is classically described as having two heads: long and short. However, anatomical variations such as a third (accessory) head are not uncommon and may have clinical implications during surgical, orthopedic, or radiological procedures involving the arm. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and morphological characteristics of the third head of biceps brachii in cadavers from North Coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Materials and methods
A total of 100 upper limbs from 50 formalin-fixed adult cadavers (35 males, 15 females) were dissected during routine anatomical teaching sessions. The origin and laterality of the third head of biceps brachii were documented, and observations were categorized by sex and site of origin.
Results
A third head of the biceps brachii was identified in 10% of dissected upper limbs. It was more commonly observed in males (11.4%) than in females (6.8%). The third head originated from the insertion site of the deltoid muscle in 7 limbs (7%) and from the insertion of the coracobrachialis in 3 limbs (3%). Bilateral occurrence was noted in 6 limbs, 4 from the deltoid and 2 from the coracobrachialis origins in males, and 2 bilateral deltoid-origin cases in females. No additional accessory heads were noted. The origins of the long and short heads remained constant in all specimens.
Conclusion
The third head of the biceps brachii is a notable anatomical variation, especially in males, with deltoid insertion being the more frequent site of origin. Awareness of such variations is essential for surgeons, radiologists, and clinicians to avoid diagnostic confusion and complications during upper limb procedures.
Recommendations
Further anatomical studies across diverse regions are recommended to support surgical planning and prevent complications related to muscular variations. |
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| ISSN: | 2709-9997 |