Mnemonics
a. Lateral is Less and Medial is More.
- Lateral pectoral nerve passes through and supplies one muscle.
- Medial pectoral nerve passes through and supplies two muscles.
b. Major receives 2 innervations and Minor receives 1 innervation.
Hence, Lateral pectoral nerve passes through and supplies Pectoralis major. Medial pectoral nerve passes through and supplies Pectoralis major and minor.
The lateral pectoral nerve and the medial pectoral nerve form a connection called the ansa pectoralis around the axillary artery.
| Lateral Pectoral Nerve | Medial Pectoral Nerve | |
| Origin | Lateral cord of brachial plexus (C5-C7) | Medial cord of brachial plexus (C8-T1) |
| Course | Posterior then medial to axillary artery | Anterior then lateral to axillary artery |
| Innervation | 1. Clavicular head of Pectoralis major (upper half) | 1. Sternocostal head of Pectoralis major (lower half) 2. Pectoralis minor |
He is the section editor of Orthopedics in Epomedicine. He searches for and share simpler ways to make complicated medical topics simple. He also loves writing poetry, listening and playing music. He is currently pursuing Fellowship in Hip, Pelvi-acetabulum and Arthroplasty at B&B Hospital.