El nervio pectoral lateral es un nervio motor que se origina en el cordón lateral del plexo braquial. Aporta inervación motora al músculo pectoral mayor y contribuye a la inervación del músculo pectoral menor. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Trayecto El nervio pectoral lateral se origina en el cordón lateral del plexo braquial y contiene fibras de las raíces C5-7. En primer lugar, pasa por delante de la arteria axilar. En este punto, suele dar lugar a una rama comunicante que se une al nervio pectoral medial y forma el asa pectoral. A continuación, atraviesa la membrana costocoracoidea, antes de terminar en la superficie profunda del músculo pectoral mayor. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig. 1: nervios pectoral medial y lateral. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Funciones motoras El nervio pectoral lateral aporta inervación motora al músculo pectoral mayor. Además, contribuye a la inervación del músculo pectoral menor a través del asa pectoral. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig. 2: las cabezas esternal y clavicular del músculo pectoral mayor. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig. 3: los músculos serrato anterior y pectoral menor. Frequent questions What is the origin of the lateral pectoral nerve? The lateral pectoral nerve originates from the lateral cord of the brachial plexus and contains fibres from the C5-7 spinal roots. This anatomical relationship is crucial for its function in motor innervation. What muscles are innervated by the lateral pectoral nerve? The lateral pectoral nerve primarily provides motor innervation to the pectoralis major muscle and also contributes to the innervation of the pectoralis minor muscle. This dual innervation is essential for upper limb movements. What is the pathway of the lateral pectoral nerve? The lateral pectoral nerve travels anterior to the axillary artery and typically gives rise to a communicating branch that joins the medial pectoral nerve, forming the pectoral loop. It then passes through the costocoracoid membrane before reaching the deep surface of the pectoralis major. What is the clinical significance of the lateral pectoral nerve? The lateral pectoral nerve is clinically significant as it innervates key muscles involved in shoulder movement, and injury to this nerve can result in weakness of the pectoral muscles. Understanding its course and function aids in diagnosing related injuries. How does the lateral pectoral nerve contribute to the pectoral loop? The lateral pectoral nerve forms a pectoral loop by giving off a branch that connects with the medial pectoral nerve. This anatomical feature enhances the motor innervation to the pectoral muscles, facilitating coordinated movements. Rate This Article