What anatomical structure is responsible for median nerve entrapment in some individuals proximal to the elbow?

What anatomical structure is responsible for median nerve entrapment in some individuals proximal to the elbow?

• A. The anterior interosseous ligament
• B. The UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament)
• C. The Ligament of Struthers
• D. The flexor retinaculum

Answer: (C)

The Ligament of Struthers is a fibrous band that can be present in some individuals, running from the medial epicondyle of the humerus to the coronoid process of the ulna. Its presence can create an anatomical tunnel through which the median nerve passes. If this ligament is present, it can lead to median nerve entrapment in some individuals, especially during activities that stretch or compress this area. This ligament is particularly relevant in cases where patients present with symptoms of median nerve compression, as it can contribute to increased pressure on the nerve when the arm is in certain positions. Understanding this relationship is vital for diagnosis and management, especially in scenarios where a patient exhibits signs of carpal tunnel syndrome or other peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes. The other anatomical structures listed do have their own relevance in terms of nerve and vascular pathways in the arm but do not specifically relate to median nerve entrapment proximal to the elbow in the same manner. For example, while the anterior interosseous ligament supports the interosseous membrane, it does not directly trap the median nerve. The UCL is more associated with the stability of the elbow joint itself and not with nerve entrapment. The flexor retinaculum primarily involves

The Ligament of Struthers is a fibrous band that can be present in some individuals, running from the medial epicondyle of the humerus to the coronoid process of the ulna. Its presence can create an anatomical tunnel through which the median nerve passes. If this ligament is present, it can lead to median nerve entrapment in some individuals, especially during activities that stretch or compress this area.

This ligament is particularly relevant in cases where patients present with symptoms of median nerve compression, as it can contribute to increased pressure on the nerve when the arm is in certain positions. Understanding this relationship is vital for diagnosis and management, especially in scenarios where a patient exhibits signs of carpal tunnel syndrome or other peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes.

The other anatomical structures listed do have their own relevance in terms of nerve and vascular pathways in the arm but do not specifically relate to median nerve entrapment proximal to the elbow in the same manner. For example, while the anterior interosseous ligament supports the interosseous membrane, it does not directly trap the median nerve. The UCL is more associated with the stability of the elbow joint itself and not with nerve entrapment. The flexor retinaculum primarily involves