Median Nerve Thenar LOAF — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModerateAnatomyMedian Nerve Thenar LOAFFRCA Primary

The median nerve provides motor supply to most forearm flexors and which thenar muscles?

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Correct answer: B — Opponens pollicis / abductor pollicis brevis / flexor pollicis brevis (superficial head) via the recurrent motor branch

The recurrent motor branch of the median nerve supplies three thenar muscles: opponens pollicis / abductor pollicis brevis / flexor pollicis brevis (superficial head). The mnemonic is OAF (Opponens / Abductor / Flexor). Median nerve injury at the wrist causes thenar wasting and loss of thumb opposition (ape hand deformity).

Reference: RCoA 2021 Primary FRCA Curriculum