External Longitudinal Splitting of the Biceps Brachii Muscle for Coverage of Repaired Brachial Vessels: An Anatomical Study and Clinical Application

: The external longitudinal splitting of the biceps brachii muscle offers a convenient and safe method for covering exposed vessels in the medial aspect of the arm in cases with loss of soft tissue. This anatomical study reveals rather variable and inconsistent patterns of blood supply to the biceps brachii muscle. The common denominator among the patterns is the fact that the nutrient vessels to the muscle originate in its posterior deep surface and course thereafter in a fan shape upward to the surface of the anterior aspect of the muscle. This microcirculatory pattern permits the external longitudinal splitting of the biceps brachii muscle along the whole anteromedial aspect of the short-headed belly without compromising its blood supply and function. An illustrative case is described.