Following an attack, a 21-year-old man is transported to the emergency room. He was trying to flee and turned aside just as his assailant came at him from behind with a knife. The patient had a 4-cm-wide penetrating wound with severe blood loss. He is taken to the surgery room after basic stabilization. An injury to a muscle that aids in internal rotation of the arm and is innervated by the thoracodorsal nerve is discovered during surgical investigation. Which of the muscles seen in the cadaveric specimen is most likely damaged in this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: The latissimus dorsi is a big thoracolumbar muscle that helps the humerus move forcefully. It arises from the iliac crest and lumbar fascia to the spinous processes of T7-12 and the lower ribs. It fits into the humerus's bicipital groove. The thoracodorsal nerve innervates the latissimus dorsi, with fibers coming from the C6-8 nerve roots. The humerus' primary tasks are extension, adduction, and internal rotation.
The latissimus dorsi is prone to external stress due to its large size and exposed placement. It is also commonly damaged in sports that require the humerus to move forcefully downward, such as throwing, climbing, or swinging a tennis racket above.

Following an Attack, a 21-Year-Old Man Is Transported to the Emergency