Axillary arch in human: Common morphology and variety. Definition of “clinical” axillary arch and its classification

In this work the authors summarize the extensive information available concerning the best-known variant muscular structure in the region of the human axilla - the axillary arch. Emphasis has been placed on the common morphology and variety of the axillary arches. From the anatomical descriptions, the authors extract the characteristics of a group of “typical” axillary arches and also noted the descriptions of a group of “unusual” axillary arches found in the recent literature. The axillary arch terminology, incidence in human population, innervation and origin are discussed. The clinical significance of the axillary arch is presented briefly and the need of a new concept for the axillary arch is stated. In conclusion, for the purpose of clinical practice, a new term - “clinical” axillary arch is defined, and its proper clinically oriented classification is presented.