Axillary block musculocutaneous nerve — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModerateAnatomyAxillary block musculocutaneous nerveFRCA Primary

An axillary brachial plexus block gives good median, ulnar and radial nerve anaesthesia, but the lateral forearm remains sensate. Which nerve was most likely missed?

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Correct answer: B — Musculocutaneous nerve

The musculocutaneous nerve often leaves the axillary sheath early and lies in or between the biceps and coracobrachialis, so it may need a separate injection. The long thoracic and dorsal scapular nerves are proximal branches. The phrenic nerve is not part of axillary block assessment. Lateral forearm sensation is via the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm, a musculocutaneous continuation.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus; regional anaesthesia anatomy texts