Dissection of thoracic and lumbosacral regions of back from a posterior approach

Erector spinae muscle, general view

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Image #213-2

Dissection of thoracic and lumbosacral regions of back from a posterior approach

Erector spinae muscle, general view

The trapezius and latissimus dorsi muscles have been preserved on the right side. These muscles have been removed on the left side and the left shoulder girdle has been pulled aside. The posterior serratus muscles have been cut away and the thoracolumbar fascia has been removed to display the left erector spinae muscles. The delicate, intrinsic fascia of the erector spinae has also been removed.

1. Scapula (retracted laterally)
2. Serratus posterior superior muscle (reflected)
3. Serratys anterior muscle
4. Fascia related to serratus anterior muscle
5. External intercostal muscle
6. Iliocostalis thoracis muscle
7. Longissimus thoracis muscle
8. Spinalis thoracis muscle (together 6, 7 and 8 make up the erector spinae muscle)
9. Dorsal branch thoracic nerve X (lateral cutaneous branch)
10. Rib XII
11. Internal oblique muscle (reflected anteriorly)
12. Thoracolumbar fascia (cut margin of layer which covered erector spinae)
13. Spinous process vertebra Th. II
14. Trapezius muscle
15. Latissimus dorsi muscle
16. Thoracolumbar fascia (intact)
17. External oblique muscle
18. Iliac crest