The term 'biceps brachii': a misnomer?

Abstract

Introduction There are a variety of anatomical variations which can be observed during dissection, diagnosis and surgical procedures. These variations are equally important from a clinical as well as an academic point of view. This report discusses the additional head of the biceps branchii. Case report We noticed the third head of biceps brachii during dissection; the head was arising from the fascia covering the brachialis muscle and getting inserted on the radial tuberosity after merging with the long and short heads of biceps. Conclusion The supernumerary head may have both positive and negative effects. Clinical significance lies in the fact that this additional head may cause compression of musculocutaneous nerve, median nerve and brachial artery, which are in close relation with it and produce compression symptoms.