Downloads: 1
Original Research | Anatomy and Histology | Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026 | Pages: 910 - 914 | India
Morphology of the Ulnar Nerve in the Forearm and Hand, Including Its Variations
Abstract: Background: The medial cord of the brachial plexus gives rise to the ulnar nerve, which includes fibres from the ventral ramus of C7 (C8, T1). It gives off several branches in the forearm and in the hand, including articular, muscular, palmar cutaneous, dorsal, superficial terminal, and deep terminal branches. Materials and methods: This research investigated a total of 50 embalmed human bodies (25 from the right side and 25 from the left side) representing both genders within the adult demographic of South India. These specimens were sourced from the Department of Anatomy at Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute in Bengaluru. Variations were noted in the ulnar nerve concerning its presence, the path it takes relative to the artery, the level at which branches originate, and its connections with the median nerve. Results: The ulnar nerve was identified in all 50 specimens of upper limbs, resulting in a 100% presence rate. In around 88% of the instances, the dorsal cutaneous branch of the ulnar nerve emerged 5 cm above the pisiform bone. It then travelled down the medial aspect of the wrist and hand's posterior side, branching into medial and lateral divisions in all cases (100%) below the pisiform bone. In 12% of the instances, this branch appeared just beneath the elbow joint. Furthermore, terminal branches of the ulnar nerve showed trifurcation in 6% of cases. The superficial terminal branch stemmed from the ulnar nerve trunk and innervated one and a half medial fingers in 94% of cases; however, in 6% of occurrences, it provided sensation to two and a half medial fingers. Conclusion: Understanding these variations, along with the normal patterns, is beneficial for interventional radiologists, orthopaedic surgeons, and neurologists. This knowledge can help prevent iatrogenic injuries to the ulnar nerve during radiological procedures, surgeries for fractures, or the administration of diagnostic therapies.
Keywords: Ulnar nerve, Nerves in the forearm, Nerves in the hand, Entrapment neuropathy
How to Cite?: Dr. Vijay Kumar S, Dr. Priya Ranganath, Dr. Vikram S, "Morphology of the Ulnar Nerve in the Forearm and Hand, Including Its Variations", Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 910-914, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26617104935, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26617104935