Background: The anatomical variations in different parts of the brachial plexus have been described in the literature. The knowledge of anatomical variations of brachial plexus is essential because these nerves could be injured during the surgical procedures. The present study is aimed at assessing the branching pattern of the lateral cord of brachial plexus. Materials and Methods: The present descriptive study was carried out by dissecting 50 upper limbs in 25 cadavers during the study period of two years in the department of anatomy, M.S.Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore. The formation and the branching pattern of the lateral cord were studied, any variations found were noted and photographs were taken. Observation and Results: Out of 50 upper limbs studied, fusion of ventral division of all the three trunks was detected in 1 limb (2%); variations in branches of lateral cord were detected in 5 limbs (10%). In the remaining limbs there was normal formation and branching of lateral cord was seen. Conclusion: The knowledge of branching pattern of the lateral cord of brachial plexus is of important not only to the anatomist, but also to the anesthetists, orthopaedician , neurosurgeons, plastic and reconstructive surgeons during surgical procedures involving the axilla in order to prevent inadvertent injuries.