Question #576

Middle scalene is the longest of the scalene muscles arising from the transverse processes of C2-7 and inserts into the first rib posterior to the groove for the subclavian artery.

As with the anterior scalenemuscle it can either flex the cervical spine or elevate the first rib, the latter being a role that the muscle plays even in quiet respiration at rest.

Middle scalene is directly innervated by the anterior rami of C3-8. The nerve roots of the long thoracic nerve pierce the muscle.

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