Palmar Cutaneous Branch of the Median Nerve Anatomy
- The palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve typically branches from the anterior radial aspect of the median nerve 5 to 7 cm proximal to the transverse wrist crease.
- The palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve pierces the forearm fascia at the level of the wrist crease and enter the subcutaneous tissues over the thenar eminence.
Diagrams & Photos
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Palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve after removal of the distal forearm fascia. -
Median nerve laceration where the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve was spared. Note palmaris longs (PL), median nerve (MN), flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS), and laceration (dotted line).
Key Points
- Intrathenar incisions that curve radially as they are extended into the forearm may cut the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve and cause painful neuromas.
- Lacerations in the area of the radial wrist crease may also cut the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve causing painful neuromas.