The arcade of Struthers: an anatomical study

Abstract

Background: The arcade of Struthers has been described as possible cause of compression of the ulnar nerve but several authors and our own experience have doubt cast on its existence. We, therefore, performed an anatomical study to determine whether or not the arcade of Struthers exists.

Methods: Ten arms from fresh frozen cadavers were dissected. Special attention was given to the fascial layers of the medial aspect of the upper arm and the medial intermuscular septum and their relation ships to the ulnar nerve.

Findings: An arcade of Struthers was not found in any specimen.

Interpretation: The arcade of Struthers does not exist and is not an anatomical structure, but a man-made construct.