Anatomic Characteristics and Surgical Implications of the Superficial Radial Nerve
Thanasil Huanmanop MD, MSc*, Sithiporn Agthong MD, PhD*, Krisada Luengchawapong MD*, Thananed Sasiwongpakdee MD*, Pattarin Burapasomboon*, Vilai Chentanez MD, PhD*
Affiliation : * Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University
Background : Superficial radial nerve (SRN) that lies superficially on the radial side of the distal forearm and
dorsum of the hand, can be injured by various procedures. Thus, precise knowledge in its variation is crucial.
Objective : Since there were no such data in Thai population, provide the variation data of the SRN in Thai
cadavers. This is likely to be more accurate when applied in Thailand
Materials and Methods : The authors studied the branching pattern and the course of SRN in 40 Thai cadavers.
Results : The extra type, replacement of SR3 by a branch of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve, was
found (4.7%) and the incidences of other patterns were different from those of previous reports. Moreover,
asymmetry and gender difference were also demonstrated. The authors observed the higher frequencies of the
SRN lying over the snuffbox and first dorsal compartment of the wrist compared to other reports. The distances
to important landmarks were measured and the presented data were comparable to those of other studies with
no significant differences between sides or genders.
Conclusion : These findings suggest that the different variations of the SRN among various races should be
concerned during the relevant procedures.
Keywords : Superficial radial nerve, Anatomical variation, Side, Gender
