Posterior compartment of the arm

Fascial compartments of arm
Cross section showing the fascial compartments of the upper and lower arm
Identifiers
TA	A04.6.01.001
FMA	265176
Anatomical terminology []

The fascial compartments of arm refers to the specific anatomical term of the compartments within the upper segment of the upper limb(the arm) of the body. The upper limb is divided into two segments, the arm and the forearm. Each of these segments is further divided into two compartments which are formed by deep fascia – tough connective tissue septa (walls). Each compartment encloses specific muscles and nerves.

The compartments of the arm are the anterior compartment of the arm and the posterior compartment of the arm, divided by the lateral and the medial intermuscular septa. The compartments of the forearm are the anterior compartment of the forearm and posterior compartment of the forearm

The lateral intermuscular septum extends from the lower part of the crest of the greater tubercle of the humerus, along the lateral supracondylar ridge, to the lateral epicondyle; it is blended with the tendon of the deltoid muscle, gives attachment to the triceps brachii behind, and to the brachialis, brachioradialis, and extensor carpi radialis longus muscles in front. It is perforated by the radial nerve and profunda branch of the brachial artery.

The medial intermuscular septum, is thicker than the lateral intermuscular septum. It extends from the lower part of the crest of the lesser tubercle of the humerus below the teres major, and passes along the medial supracondylar ridge to the medial epicondyle; it is blended with the tendon of the coracobrachialis, and gives attachment to the triceps brachii behind and the brachialis in front.