An unusual sternalis with variation of the contralateral sternocleidomastoid muscle: a case report

Abstract

To report a previously undocumented variant of sternalis. MethodsAn unusual muscle was observed during routine dissection. ResultsThe sternalis muscle located in the right thoracic region originated from the superior portion of the rectus abdominis sheath and 5-6th costal cartilages, crossed the midline and attached at the sternum. The muscle bers then ascended with the left sternocleidomastoid muscle as an additional fasciculus, of which the superior ends were nally terminated at the left mastoid process. The sternalis muscle of the thoracic region was innervated by the anterior cutaneous branches of right intercostal nerve, while the additional fasciculus ascended with the left sternocleidomastoid muscle was innervated by the branches of left accessory nerve. ConclusionsThis study presents a unilateral sternalis muscle with the contralateral sternocleidomastoid variation. It will enhance the exhaustive classi cation of sternalis, and provide signi cant information to radiologists, angiologists and surgeons for better interpretation of images and safer interventions.